Effect of some feed additives on osmoregulation in aquatic animals

Abstract

This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the effects of various dietary additives on osmoregulation in aquaculture. It covers salt supplements, potassium supplements, myo-inositol supplements, metal ion supplements, and monosaccharides, emphasizing their importance in improving osmotic adjustment. The review provides an overview of the underlying mechanisms involved in osmoregulation and highlights the role of some specific dietary additives in promoting osmotic balance. Dietary salt and inorganic potassium directly provide ions for osmotic balance, while dietary metals, inositol, and monosaccharides can help mitigate the effects of osmotic stress and enhance the body's capacity for osmoregulation. Additionally, the addition of exogenous glucose not only provides energy required for osmoregulation but also acts as an osmolyte itself, contributing to osmoregulation. The review underscores the need for further research to better understand the interactions between dietary additives and osmoregulation in aquaculture. It also highlights the importance of considering species-specific requirements, optimal dosage levels, and the potential synergistic effects of combining multiple additives. Overall, carefully selected and properly administered dietary additives have the potential to improve osmoregulatory capacity, mitigate osmotic stress, and enhance the overall performance and welfare of cultured aquatic organisms. Future research should focus on elucidating the underlying mechanisms and optimizing the application of dietary additives to maximize their effectiveness in aquaculture systems.