Effect on survival and growth (weight and length) of Ambystoma Mexicanum (Shaw Y Nodder, 1798) of three probiotics obtained from their gastrointestinal tract

Abstract

The effect of probiotic strains (Lactococcus lactis; Lactobacillus sp and Bacillus subtilis), isolated from the intestinal tract of Ambystoma mexicanum on survival and growth of this amphibian was evaluated. 120 larvae with a weight of 3.0 ± 0.26 g and length of 1.5 ± 0.62 cm, were fed with probiotic strains (107 CFU mL-1) bioencapsulated in Artemia franciscana metanauplii. Diets were handled in triplicates (10 organisms per beaker) during 60 days. Every 15 days were measured and weighed to obtain the intrinsic growth rate (IGR) and absolute growth rate (AGR). Analysis of variance and Condition Factor was performed. Organisms that obtained a higher weight and length were fed with B. subtilis (5.86 ±0.42 g; 4.56 ±0.27 cm). Diets with L. lactis and B. subtilis presented the best Condition Factor (KM). Variance analysis showed significate differences (P<0.001) between all treatments. Axolotls fed with probiotics presented survival <85%, while control was 60%.