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Papers by John Sweetman

Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 2015

The study assesses the effects of dietary concentrated mannan oligosaccharides (cMOS) on fish per... more The study assesses the effects of dietary concentrated mannan oligosaccharides (cMOS) on fish performance, biochemical composition, tissue fatty acid profiles, liver and posterior gut morphology and gen expression of selected parameters involved on the intestinal immune response and liver lipid metabolism of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). For that purpose, specimens of 20 g were fed during 8 weeks at 0 and 1.6 g kg(-1) dietary cMOS of inclusion in a commercial sea bass diet. Dietary cMOS enhanced fish length, specific and relative growth without affecting tissue proximate composition. However, cMOS supplementation altered especially liver and muscle fatty acid profiles by reducing levels of those fatty acids that are preferential substrates for β-oxidation in spite of a preferential retention of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), such as 20:4n-6 or 22:5n-6, in relation to the down-regulation of delta 6/5 desaturase gene expression found in liver. Besides, dietary cMOS supplementation reduced posterior gut intestinal folds width and induced changes on the gene expression level of certain immune-related genes mainly by down regulating transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and up-regulating immunoglobulin (Ig), major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII), T cell receptor β (TCRβ) and Caspase 3 (Casp-3). Thus, dietary cMOS inclusion at 0.16% promoted European sea bass specific growth rate and length, stimulated selected cellular GALT-associated parameters and affected lipid metabolism in muscle and liver pointing to a higher LC-PUFA accumulation and promoted β-oxidation.

Journal of Nutritional Science, 2015

Microalgae, as primary producers of EPA and DHA, are among the most prominent alternative sources... more Microalgae, as primary producers of EPA and DHA, are among the most prominent alternative sources to fish oil for n-3 long-chain PUFA in animal and human nutrition. The present study aimed to assess technical, nutritional and fish health aspects of producing n-3-rich Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) fish fillets by dietary supplementation of increasing levels of a DHA-producing Schizochytrium sp. and reduced or without use of supplemental fish oil. Atlantic salmon smolt were fed diets with graded levels of microalgae for 12 weeks, during which all fish showed high feed intake rates with postprandial plasma leptin levels inversely correlating with final mean fish body weights. Fish performance was optimal in all experimental treatments (thermal growth coefficient about 4·0 and feed conversion ratio 0·8-0·9), protein digestibility was equal in all diets, whereas dietary lipid digestibility inversely correlated with the dietary levels of the SFA 16 : 0. Fillet quality was good and similar to the control in all treatments in terms of n-3 long-chain PUFA content, gaping, texture and liquid losses during thawing. Histological fluorescence staining and immunofluorescence analysis of salmon intestines (midgut: base of intestine and villi) revealed significant effects on slime, goblet cell production and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity with increasing levels of dietary Schizochytrium sp. supplementation. Microarray analysis did not reveal any signs of toxicity, stress, inflammation or any other negative effects from Schizochytrium sp. supplementation in diets for Atlantic salmon.

This study investigated the single and combined effects of pre- and probiotics supplement on the ... more This study investigated the single and combined effects of pre- and probiotics supplement on the growth performance and immune response of rainbow trout. Seven diets supplemented with 1% Enterococcus faecalis (E), 0.4% mannan oligosaccharides (M) and 1% polyhydroxybutyrate (P) in single (E, M and P diets), double (EM and EP diets) or triple combinations (EMP diet) were fed to juvenile rainbow trout (13.2±0.25 g) for 12 weeks. During the feeding test, the fish were healthy and no mortality occurred. Although weight gain and specific growth rate (SGR) were significantly higher (P＜0.05) in the fish fed single supplementation of mannan oligosaccharides, its combined supplementation together with E. faecalis showed further improvement of growth as well as feed gain ratio (FGR). On the other hand, single administration of E. faecalis could not improve any growth performance parameter. In addition, E. faecalis improved the immunological parameters such as hematocrit value, phagocytic index...

North American Journal of Aquaculture, 2013

ABSTRACT We examined the effects of the following seven experimental diets that varied in the con... more ABSTRACT We examined the effects of the following seven experimental diets that varied in the concentration of inactivated cells of Enterococcus faecalis (Ef) and mannan oligosaccharides (MOS), on Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss:control (C) diet (no Ef and noMOS), diet E0.25% (2.5 g/kg Ef), diet E0.5% (5 g/kg Ef), dietM0.25% (2.5 g/kg MOS),diet M0.5% (5 g/kg MOS), diet EM0.25% (2.5 g/kg Ef + 2.5 g/kg MOS) and diet EM0.5% (5 g/kg Ef + 5 g/kg MOS).Rainbow Trout, initially weighing 36.27 ± 0.42 g (mean ± SD) were distributed into fourteen 60-L glass tanks at a stocking density of 35 fish per tank. Each diet was hand-fed to duplicate groups of fish twice daily for a 12-week period. After the feeding test, an intraperitoneal injection challenge test of Aeromonas salmonicida was conducted over 14 d. Resulting data were submitted to a multivariate analysis of variance. Weight gain increased significantly (P < 0.05) in E0.25%, M0.25%, and EM0.5% experimental groups compared with the control. Specific growth rate was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in fish fed E0.25%, M0.25%, and EM0.5% diets compared with fish fed the C diet. Feed gain ratio and protein efficiency ratio were significantly improved (P < 0.05) in fish fed the EM0.5% diet compared with fish fed theC diet. Feed intake, protein efficiency ratio, protein retention, and the apparent digestibility coefficient recorded slight differences within experimental groups. Hematocrit value and phagocytic activity were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in fish fed E0.25%, E0.5%, M0.5%, EM0.25%, and EM0.5% diets compared with fish fed the C diet. Except for fish in the E0.25% group, fish in all other experimental groups showed a significantly higher (P < 0.05) mucus weight compared with those in the C group. After the challenge test, cumulative mortality and frequency of A. salmonicida were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in all experimental groups compared with the C group. In conclusion, dosage and single or combined supplementation of Ef andMOS are factors that significantly affect fish performance.

Aquaculture, Oct 1, 2009

ABSTRACT Commercial salmonid diets are not typically supplemented with selenium (Se) as they natu... more ABSTRACT Commercial salmonid diets are not typically supplemented with selenium (Se) as they naturally contain relatively high levels of this essential trace element; however supplementation may be necessary to meet requirements during physical stress. Adopting an integrated approach by simultaneously determining Se status, various health parameters and interactions with other trace elements, this study aimed to determine the role of supra-supplemented selenite and Se-yeast (Selplex®) on the growth and health of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), both under normal conditions and after exposure to chronic physical stress. Fish were fed one of seven diets; a basal un-supplemented diet (0.73 mg kg− 1 Se) or diets supplemented with Se-yeast or sodium selenite to provide 2, 4, or 8 mg kg− 1 Se for 10 weeks prior to subjection of daily handling and confinement stressors for seven days. Net whole body Se retention was significantly greater for Se-yeast than selenite at all levels. In normal conditions activities of hepatic glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and thioredoxin reductase (Trx-R) indicate that Se requirements were met by the basal diet. Similarly, pre-stress supra-supplementation of selenite and Se-yeast did not affect oxidative status (total antioxidant capacity of serum and hepatic malondialdehyde), immuno-competence (respiratory burst activity, serum lysozyme, and leukocyte counts) or other haematological and growth parameters (nuclear abnormalities in erythrocytes, and specific growth rate). In contrast, the trend towards a higher GSH-Px post-stress in Se supplemented diets over the basal diet, particularly in Se-yeast fed fish, indicates that Se requirements may not be met by the un-supplemented practical diet in stressed fish. Seven days of chronic physical stress decreased whole body Se and increased GSH-Px activity signifying an increased Se utilisation. During stress Se status was more effectively maintained by Se-yeast than selenite. Increased hepatic lipid peroxidation in stressed fish fed 8 mg kg− 1 selenite indicates a possible pro-oxidant effect of selenite. A positive interaction was observed between dietary selenite and whole body copper, but no such interaction was observed with Se-yeast. This study concludes that physical stressors can result in an elevated Se utilisation and consequently supplementation of commercial diets may be necessary such that Se reserves are available as a contingency for stress.

Frontiers in immunology, 2015

The main objective of this study was to assess the effects of 4 g kg(-1) dietary mannan oligosacc... more The main objective of this study was to assess the effects of 4 g kg(-1) dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) inclusion in soybean oil (SBO)- and fish oil (FO)-based diets on the gut health and skin mucosa mucus production of European sea bass juveniles after 8 weeks of feeding. Dietary MOS, regardless of the oil source, promoted growth. The intestinal somatic index was not affected, however dietary SBO reduced the intestinal fold length, while dietary MOS increased it. The dietary oil source fed produced changes on the posterior intestine fatty acid profiles irrespective of MOS dietary supplementation. SBO down-regulated the gene expression of TCRβ, COX2, IL-1β, TNFα, IL-8, IL-6, IL-10, TGFβ, and Ig and up-regulated MHCII. MOS supplementation up-regulated the expression of MHCI, CD4, COX2, TNFα, and Ig when included in FO-based diets. However, there was a minor up-regulating effect on these genes when MOS was supplemented in the SBO-based diet. Both dietary oil sources and MOS aff...

Journal of Aquaculture Research & Development, 2011

Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 2015

The study assesses the effects of dietary concentrated mannan oligosaccharides (cMOS) on fish per... more The study assesses the effects of dietary concentrated mannan oligosaccharides (cMOS) on fish performance, biochemical composition, tissue fatty acid profiles, liver and posterior gut morphology and gen expression of selected parameters involved on the intestinal immune response and liver lipid metabolism of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). For that purpose, specimens of 20 g were fed during 8 weeks at 0 and 1.6 g kg(-1) dietary cMOS of inclusion in a commercial sea bass diet. Dietary cMOS enhanced fish length, specific and relative growth without affecting tissue proximate composition. However, cMOS supplementation altered especially liver and muscle fatty acid profiles by reducing levels of those fatty acids that are preferential substrates for β-oxidation in spite of a preferential retention of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), such as 20:4n-6 or 22:5n-6, in relation to the down-regulation of delta 6/5 desaturase gene expression found in liver. Besides, dietary cMOS supplementation reduced posterior gut intestinal folds width and induced changes on the gene expression level of certain immune-related genes mainly by down regulating transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and up-regulating immunoglobulin (Ig), major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII), T cell receptor β (TCRβ) and Caspase 3 (Casp-3). Thus, dietary cMOS inclusion at 0.16% promoted European sea bass specific growth rate and length, stimulated selected cellular GALT-associated parameters and affected lipid metabolism in muscle and liver pointing to a higher LC-PUFA accumulation and promoted β-oxidation.

Journal of Fish Diseases, 2012

The effects of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS; 4 g kg(-1) ; Bio-Mos, Alltech Inc, USA) in d... more The effects of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS; 4 g kg(-1) ; Bio-Mos, Alltech Inc, USA) in diets for European sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax (L.), juveniles in relation to disease and stress resistance, combining intestinal infection with Vibrio anguillarum and stress challenge by confinement, were assessed in this study. After 8 weeks of MOS supplementation, fish were exposed to a pathogen challenge test against V. anguillarum by direct gut inoculation combined with a confinement stressor panel. Cumulative mortality of fish fed MOS caused by anally inoculated V. anguillarum decreased from 66% to 12.5% and from 54.1% to 25% in infected and infected + stressed fish, respectively, compared to fish fed control diet. Results for European sea bass revealed a positive effect of MOS dietary inclusion on disease resistance, in terms of cumulative mortality, against gut inoculated V. anguillarum, as well as reduced effects of stress on microbiota diversity. Both of these findings, together with the enhanced innate immune response and the higher gut mucus production and density of eosinophil granulocytes in gut mucosa obtained in previous studies after MOS supplementation (Torrecillas et al. 2007, 2011a,b) suggest that general reinforcement of the innate immune system, and particularly of the intestinal barrier efficiency, is the main defence mechanism of European sea bass fed MOS against pathogenic microorganisms.

Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 2010

Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 2013

The study assesses the effects of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) in European sea bass (Dic... more The study assesses the effects of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) posterior intestinal lipid class composition and its possible relation to the potential prostaglandins production and Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue (GALT) stimulation. Fish were fed 4 g kg(-1) MOS (Bio-Mos(®) Aquagrade, Alltech, Inc., USA) for eight weeks. Fish fed MOS presented higher (P ≤ 0.05) weight gain, total length, and specific and relative growth rates than fish fed the control diet. Stimulated posterior gut of fish fed MOS showed higher (P ≤ 0.05) prostaglandins production than fish fed the control diet. Lipid class analyses of posterior gut revealed a reduction (P ≤ 0.05) in the neutral lipid fraction in fish fed MOS compared to fish fed the control diet, particularly due to a reduction (P ≤ 0.05) in triacylglycerols content. The polar lipid fraction increased (P ≤ 0.05) in fish fed MOS compared to fish fed the control diet, mainly due to an increase (P ≤ 0.05) in phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcoline contents. Light microscopy of posterior gut revealed increased number or goblet cells as well as higher level of infiltrated eosinophilic granulocytes for fish fed MOS. Transmission electron microscopy qualitative observations revealed a better preserved cytoarchitecture of the intestinal epithelial barrier in the posterior gut of fish fed MOS. Posterior gut of fish fed MOS presented more densely packed non-damaged enterocytes, better preserved tight junctions structure, healthier and more organized microvilli, and a higher presence of infiltrated lymphocytes and granulocytes compared fish fed the control diet. The present study indicates that dietary MOS enhances European sea bass posterior gut epithelial defense by increasing membrane polar lipids content in relation to a stimulation of the eicosanoid cascade and GALT, promoting posterior gut health status.

Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 2011

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of mannan oligosaccharides derived from t... more The objective of this study was to determine the effect of mannan oligosaccharides derived from the outer cell wall of a select strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Bio-Mos, Alltech Inc, USA) on mucus production, selected mucus immune parameters activity, gut morphology and in vivo and ex vivo gut bacterial translocation for European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Specimens were fed 4 g kg⁻¹ dietary MOS level of inclusion in a commercial sea bass diet for eight weeks. At the end of this period, anterior gut mucosal folds height, width and folds surface area were increased by MOS supplementation (P < 0.05, n = 240). Posterior gut presented shorter folds (P < 0.05, n = 240) but wider that those fed control diet (P < 0.05, n = 240) resulting in increased total surface area (P < 0.05, n = 240). For rectum, feeding MOS reduced fold length (P < 0.05, n = 240). Gut morphological analyses showed an enhancement in the number of cells secreting acid mucins by area unit, higher density of eosinophilic granulocytes (ECGs) in the mucosa for fish fed MOS together with an improvement in gut mucus lysozyme activity which could be related to the reduced in vivo and ex vivo gut bacterial translocation found. No differences were found for the skin mucus immune parameters evaluated.

Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A: Molecular & Integrative Physiology, 2008

postprandial hyperemia. The mechanic component is however, most likely, important in that it allo... more postprandial hyperemia. The mechanic component is however, most likely, important in that it allows for an effective shunting of blood from the systemic circulation to the gastrointestinal circulation by increasing the driving force (P da ). Additionally, the rapid increase in Q and q ia as well as the enhanced P da response indicate that there are chemoceptors in the stomach. The effect of dietary mannan oligosaccharides on the intestinal histology of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Aquaculture Research, 2010

The in£uence of dietary mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) on the development, gut integrity and qualit... more The in£uence of dietary mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) on the development, gut integrity and quality (in respect of stamina and survivability) of white sea bream Diplodus sargus L. larvae was investigated. White sea bream larvae were held under appropriate rearing conditions and fed Artemia, enriched by A1 DHA Selco TM with the addition or absence of MOS (Bio-Mos s ). The results indicated that larval growth performance and survivability were not a¡ected by the MOS supplementation. Light microscopy revealed that MOS supplementation signi¢cantly improved the intestinal morphology by increasing the villi surface area by over 12%. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that MOS supplementation increased the microvilli length by 26% compared with the control. Salinity challenge experiments showed that MOS signi¢cantly increased larval stamina and survival in both 0 and 60 mg L À 1 salinity water by 13% and 22.9% respectively. These improvements in the larval quality at the early stages of ¢sh development are important for the e⁄ciency of intensive hatchery production. E¡ect of MOS supplementation on white sea bream larvae A Dimitroglou et al. r 2010 The Authors Journal Compilation r 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd, Aquaculture Research, 41, e245^e251 e247 19.08 AE 1.43 min 23.44 AE 1.44 min 0.020 AU, arbitrary units; MOS, mannan oligosaccharide; PR, perimeter ratio.

Aquaculture Research, 2010

This study aimed to investigate the e¡ect of increased zinc dietary levels on the growth performa... more This study aimed to investigate the e¡ect of increased zinc dietary levels on the growth performance, feed utilization, immune status and induced wound healing in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Fish weighing 10 g were fed ¢ve diets containing organic zinc at 30,70,110 and 150 mg kg À 1 diet and one inorganic zinc source (zinc oxide) at 150 mg kg À 1 diet for a period of 12 weeks. No signi¢cant (P40.05) di¡erences were found in the growth performance parameters (¢nal weight, speci¢c growth rate), immunological indices tested (respiratory burst activity in whole blood) and the wound-healing process. Zinc accumulation in the skin, vertebrae and liver increased signi¢cantly (Po0.01) with increased dietary zinc levels but not in muscle. The highest zinc concentrations were obtained in skin tissue, followed by vertebrae, liver and muscle tissue. Using the concentration of zinc in skin as a response criterion, broken-line analysis showed that the supplementation of 148 mg organic Zn kg À 1 diet seemed to be the optimum dietary zinc supplementation level for sea bass juveniles.

Aquaculture International, 2010

The comparative effects of iron-supplemented levels on growth, tissue distribution, haematology a... more The comparative effects of iron-supplemented levels on growth, tissue distribution, haematology and immunology of gilthead sea bream, Sparus aurata (2 g) were investigated, using four organic (50, 100, 200, 300 mg ORG/kg diet) and one inorganic iron source (200 INOR mg/kg diet). Fish were treated for 12 weeks with the experimental diets and maintained at a water temperature of 19-22°C. Growth (final weight and specific growth rate), tissue distribution (spleen, liver and muscle), haematological parameters (red blood cells, haematocrit, haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration) and non-specific immune indexes (respiratory burst activity and antibacterial activity of serum) were analysed. No significant differences were found in growth and iron tissue distribution among the tested groups. Red blood cell counting was statistically higher in fish given 50 ORG, 100 ORG, 200 ORG and 200 INOR feeds. However, haematocrit, haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration were not significantly affected by increasing dietary iron. Fish receiving the 100 ORG diet had the best performance with respect to the respiratory burst activity and significantly higher values for antibacterial activity of serum were obtained in fish fed with the 300 ORG diet. The present findings provided no clear evidence of the optimum iron concentration. However, there was adequate indication that iron supplementation enhanced the performance of gilthead sea bream, mainly from a haematological and immunological point of view.

Aquaculture, 2010

Two experiments were conducted in order to investigate the effect of dietary mannan oligosacchari... more Two experiments were conducted in order to investigate the effect of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) on gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata). Experiment I was designed to assess the effect of dietary MOS (0%, 0.2% and 0.4%) on fish fed diets containing fishmeal (FM) as the only protein source. Experiment II was designed to assess the effect of MOS (0% and 0.4%) on fish fed soybean meal (SBM) as a partial replacement of FM (SBM inclusion 31% of diet). After 9 weeks feeding on the experimental diets growth parameters, body composition, liver and intestinal histology and intestinal microbial diversity were assessed. The results showed that mean final weight, specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and protein efficiency ratio (PER) remained unaffected by MOS supplementation of fish fed FM or SBM diets. However, compared to the control group (FM0), condition factor (K) and hepatosomatic index (HSI) were significantly lower in fish fed 0.2% MOS (FM02) and 0.4% MOS (FM04), respectively. These parameters were unaffected in SBM-fed fish. Body proximate composition remained unaffected by MOS supplementation in fish fed either FM or SBM diets (P > 0.05). Histological evaluation revealed that MOS had no effect on glycogen deposition in liver and no effect on gross villi morphology in the anterior intestine in either Experiment I or II. However, relative to the control groups (FM0) dietary MOS appeared to improve gross morphological absorptive surface area in the posterior intestine in Experiment I. Electron microscopy revealed that dietary MOS had a pronounced effect at the ultrastructural level in both experiments, as microvilli density and length were elevated in both intestinal regions in fish fed both the FM and SBM based diets. No significant histological differences were found between respective FM0 and SBM0 groups. DGGE analysis revealed that both SBM and MOS affected the intestinal microbial species richness and diversity. However, the effect of dietary MOS on the gastrointestinal microbiota was more pronounced in FM-based diets (Experiment I) as was reflected by increased species richness and diversity and reduced similarity between microbial profiles of the different FM groups. The effect of MOS in Experiment II on SBMfed fish was marginal, as species richness and diversity remained unaffected and similarity between microbial profiles of the SBM groups and replicates remained high (i.e. >80%). Dietary SBM exerted a greater effect on gut microbiota than dietary MOS.

Aquaculture, 2009

ABSTRACT Commercial salmonid diets are not typically supplemented with selenium (Se) as they natu... more ABSTRACT Commercial salmonid diets are not typically supplemented with selenium (Se) as they naturally contain relatively high levels of this essential trace element; however supplementation may be necessary to meet requirements during physical stress. Adopting an integrated approach by simultaneously determining Se status, various health parameters and interactions with other trace elements, this study aimed to determine the role of supra-supplemented selenite and Se-yeast (Selplex®) on the growth and health of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), both under normal conditions and after exposure to chronic physical stress. Fish were fed one of seven diets; a basal un-supplemented diet (0.73 mg kg− 1 Se) or diets supplemented with Se-yeast or sodium selenite to provide 2, 4, or 8 mg kg− 1 Se for 10 weeks prior to subjection of daily handling and confinement stressors for seven days. Net whole body Se retention was significantly greater for Se-yeast than selenite at all levels. In normal conditions activities of hepatic glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and thioredoxin reductase (Trx-R) indicate that Se requirements were met by the basal diet. Similarly, pre-stress supra-supplementation of selenite and Se-yeast did not affect oxidative status (total antioxidant capacity of serum and hepatic malondialdehyde), immuno-competence (respiratory burst activity, serum lysozyme, and leukocyte counts) or other haematological and growth parameters (nuclear abnormalities in erythrocytes, and specific growth rate). In contrast, the trend towards a higher GSH-Px post-stress in Se supplemented diets over the basal diet, particularly in Se-yeast fed fish, indicates that Se requirements may not be met by the un-supplemented practical diet in stressed fish. Seven days of chronic physical stress decreased whole body Se and increased GSH-Px activity signifying an increased Se utilisation. During stress Se status was more effectively maintained by Se-yeast than selenite. Increased hepatic lipid peroxidation in stressed fish fed 8 mg kg− 1 selenite indicates a possible pro-oxidant effect of selenite. A positive interaction was observed between dietary selenite and whole body copper, but no such interaction was observed with Se-yeast. This study concludes that physical stressors can result in an elevated Se utilisation and consequently supplementation of commercial diets may be necessary such that Se reserves are available as a contingency for stress.

Aquaculture Research, 2010

The promotion of nutritional strategies that optimize natural defence mechanisms in ¢sh is of cri... more The promotion of nutritional strategies that optimize natural defence mechanisms in ¢sh is of critical importance in producing robust juveniles and adult ¢sh. These animals are more capable of minimizing the impact of opportunistic pathogen attack, thus improving liveability and performance characteristics. The importance of the piscine gastrointestinal tract as a major endocrine and osmoregulatory organ is well reported as is its function as a defensive barrier to pathogen attack. Investigations using the inclusion of a speci¢c structural form of mannan oligosaccharide have been shown to improve the performance parameters, immune status, and gut morphology and improve an important aspect of barrier protection through the enhancement of mucal production in a number of aquaculture species. The selenium status of an animal is pivotal in determining the success of the innate and adaptive immune response of the animal, and the use of an organic selenium source, in the form of a selenoyeast, has been shown to improve enzyme function and tissue uptake. The antioxidant role of many of the selenoptroteins and the role of selenium in the glutathione peroxidase enzyme pathways involved in the control of oxidative stress is critical if oxidative damage and cell membrane lipid peroxidation are to be prevented.The use of these compounds as feed additives has important implications for health management in commercial aquaculture facilities. Further research is needed to evaluate the bene¢ts o¡ered by a range of commercial products.

Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 2015

The study assesses the effects of dietary concentrated mannan oligosaccharides (cMOS) on fish per... more The study assesses the effects of dietary concentrated mannan oligosaccharides (cMOS) on fish performance, biochemical composition, tissue fatty acid profiles, liver and posterior gut morphology and gen expression of selected parameters involved on the intestinal immune response and liver lipid metabolism of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). For that purpose, specimens of 20 g were fed during 8 weeks at 0 and 1.6 g kg(-1) dietary cMOS of inclusion in a commercial sea bass diet. Dietary cMOS enhanced fish length, specific and relative growth without affecting tissue proximate composition. However, cMOS supplementation altered especially liver and muscle fatty acid profiles by reducing levels of those fatty acids that are preferential substrates for β-oxidation in spite of a preferential retention of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), such as 20:4n-6 or 22:5n-6, in relation to the down-regulation of delta 6/5 desaturase gene expression found in liver. Besides, dietary cMOS supplementation reduced posterior gut intestinal folds width and induced changes on the gene expression level of certain immune-related genes mainly by down regulating transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and up-regulating immunoglobulin (Ig), major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII), T cell receptor β (TCRβ) and Caspase 3 (Casp-3). Thus, dietary cMOS inclusion at 0.16% promoted European sea bass specific growth rate and length, stimulated selected cellular GALT-associated parameters and affected lipid metabolism in muscle and liver pointing to a higher LC-PUFA accumulation and promoted β-oxidation.

Journal of Nutritional Science, 2015

Microalgae, as primary producers of EPA and DHA, are among the most prominent alternative sources... more Microalgae, as primary producers of EPA and DHA, are among the most prominent alternative sources to fish oil for n-3 long-chain PUFA in animal and human nutrition. The present study aimed to assess technical, nutritional and fish health aspects of producing n-3-rich Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) fish fillets by dietary supplementation of increasing levels of a DHA-producing Schizochytrium sp. and reduced or without use of supplemental fish oil. Atlantic salmon smolt were fed diets with graded levels of microalgae for 12 weeks, during which all fish showed high feed intake rates with postprandial plasma leptin levels inversely correlating with final mean fish body weights. Fish performance was optimal in all experimental treatments (thermal growth coefficient about 4·0 and feed conversion ratio 0·8-0·9), protein digestibility was equal in all diets, whereas dietary lipid digestibility inversely correlated with the dietary levels of the SFA 16 : 0. Fillet quality was good and similar to the control in all treatments in terms of n-3 long-chain PUFA content, gaping, texture and liquid losses during thawing. Histological fluorescence staining and immunofluorescence analysis of salmon intestines (midgut: base of intestine and villi) revealed significant effects on slime, goblet cell production and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity with increasing levels of dietary Schizochytrium sp. supplementation. Microarray analysis did not reveal any signs of toxicity, stress, inflammation or any other negative effects from Schizochytrium sp. supplementation in diets for Atlantic salmon.

This study investigated the single and combined effects of pre- and probiotics supplement on the ... more This study investigated the single and combined effects of pre- and probiotics supplement on the growth performance and immune response of rainbow trout. Seven diets supplemented with 1% Enterococcus faecalis (E), 0.4% mannan oligosaccharides (M) and 1% polyhydroxybutyrate (P) in single (E, M and P diets), double (EM and EP diets) or triple combinations (EMP diet) were fed to juvenile rainbow trout (13.2±0.25 g) for 12 weeks. During the feeding test, the fish were healthy and no mortality occurred. Although weight gain and specific growth rate (SGR) were significantly higher (P＜0.05) in the fish fed single supplementation of mannan oligosaccharides, its combined supplementation together with E. faecalis showed further improvement of growth as well as feed gain ratio (FGR). On the other hand, single administration of E. faecalis could not improve any growth performance parameter. In addition, E. faecalis improved the immunological parameters such as hematocrit value, phagocytic index...

North American Journal of Aquaculture, 2013

ABSTRACT We examined the effects of the following seven experimental diets that varied in the con... more ABSTRACT We examined the effects of the following seven experimental diets that varied in the concentration of inactivated cells of Enterococcus faecalis (Ef) and mannan oligosaccharides (MOS), on Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss:control (C) diet (no Ef and noMOS), diet E0.25% (2.5 g/kg Ef), diet E0.5% (5 g/kg Ef), dietM0.25% (2.5 g/kg MOS),diet M0.5% (5 g/kg MOS), diet EM0.25% (2.5 g/kg Ef + 2.5 g/kg MOS) and diet EM0.5% (5 g/kg Ef + 5 g/kg MOS).Rainbow Trout, initially weighing 36.27 ± 0.42 g (mean ± SD) were distributed into fourteen 60-L glass tanks at a stocking density of 35 fish per tank. Each diet was hand-fed to duplicate groups of fish twice daily for a 12-week period. After the feeding test, an intraperitoneal injection challenge test of Aeromonas salmonicida was conducted over 14 d. Resulting data were submitted to a multivariate analysis of variance. Weight gain increased significantly (P < 0.05) in E0.25%, M0.25%, and EM0.5% experimental groups compared with the control. Specific growth rate was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in fish fed E0.25%, M0.25%, and EM0.5% diets compared with fish fed the C diet. Feed gain ratio and protein efficiency ratio were significantly improved (P < 0.05) in fish fed the EM0.5% diet compared with fish fed theC diet. Feed intake, protein efficiency ratio, protein retention, and the apparent digestibility coefficient recorded slight differences within experimental groups. Hematocrit value and phagocytic activity were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in fish fed E0.25%, E0.5%, M0.5%, EM0.25%, and EM0.5% diets compared with fish fed the C diet. Except for fish in the E0.25% group, fish in all other experimental groups showed a significantly higher (P < 0.05) mucus weight compared with those in the C group. After the challenge test, cumulative mortality and frequency of A. salmonicida were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in all experimental groups compared with the C group. In conclusion, dosage and single or combined supplementation of Ef andMOS are factors that significantly affect fish performance.

Aquaculture, Oct 1, 2009

ABSTRACT Commercial salmonid diets are not typically supplemented with selenium (Se) as they natu... more ABSTRACT Commercial salmonid diets are not typically supplemented with selenium (Se) as they naturally contain relatively high levels of this essential trace element; however supplementation may be necessary to meet requirements during physical stress. Adopting an integrated approach by simultaneously determining Se status, various health parameters and interactions with other trace elements, this study aimed to determine the role of supra-supplemented selenite and Se-yeast (Selplex®) on the growth and health of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), both under normal conditions and after exposure to chronic physical stress. Fish were fed one of seven diets; a basal un-supplemented diet (0.73 mg kg− 1 Se) or diets supplemented with Se-yeast or sodium selenite to provide 2, 4, or 8 mg kg− 1 Se for 10 weeks prior to subjection of daily handling and confinement stressors for seven days. Net whole body Se retention was significantly greater for Se-yeast than selenite at all levels. In normal conditions activities of hepatic glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and thioredoxin reductase (Trx-R) indicate that Se requirements were met by the basal diet. Similarly, pre-stress supra-supplementation of selenite and Se-yeast did not affect oxidative status (total antioxidant capacity of serum and hepatic malondialdehyde), immuno-competence (respiratory burst activity, serum lysozyme, and leukocyte counts) or other haematological and growth parameters (nuclear abnormalities in erythrocytes, and specific growth rate). In contrast, the trend towards a higher GSH-Px post-stress in Se supplemented diets over the basal diet, particularly in Se-yeast fed fish, indicates that Se requirements may not be met by the un-supplemented practical diet in stressed fish. Seven days of chronic physical stress decreased whole body Se and increased GSH-Px activity signifying an increased Se utilisation. During stress Se status was more effectively maintained by Se-yeast than selenite. Increased hepatic lipid peroxidation in stressed fish fed 8 mg kg− 1 selenite indicates a possible pro-oxidant effect of selenite. A positive interaction was observed between dietary selenite and whole body copper, but no such interaction was observed with Se-yeast. This study concludes that physical stressors can result in an elevated Se utilisation and consequently supplementation of commercial diets may be necessary such that Se reserves are available as a contingency for stress.

Frontiers in immunology, 2015

The main objective of this study was to assess the effects of 4 g kg(-1) dietary mannan oligosacc... more The main objective of this study was to assess the effects of 4 g kg(-1) dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) inclusion in soybean oil (SBO)- and fish oil (FO)-based diets on the gut health and skin mucosa mucus production of European sea bass juveniles after 8 weeks of feeding. Dietary MOS, regardless of the oil source, promoted growth. The intestinal somatic index was not affected, however dietary SBO reduced the intestinal fold length, while dietary MOS increased it. The dietary oil source fed produced changes on the posterior intestine fatty acid profiles irrespective of MOS dietary supplementation. SBO down-regulated the gene expression of TCRβ, COX2, IL-1β, TNFα, IL-8, IL-6, IL-10, TGFβ, and Ig and up-regulated MHCII. MOS supplementation up-regulated the expression of MHCI, CD4, COX2, TNFα, and Ig when included in FO-based diets. However, there was a minor up-regulating effect on these genes when MOS was supplemented in the SBO-based diet. Both dietary oil sources and MOS aff...

Journal of Aquaculture Research & Development, 2011

Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 2015

The study assesses the effects of dietary concentrated mannan oligosaccharides (cMOS) on fish per... more The study assesses the effects of dietary concentrated mannan oligosaccharides (cMOS) on fish performance, biochemical composition, tissue fatty acid profiles, liver and posterior gut morphology and gen expression of selected parameters involved on the intestinal immune response and liver lipid metabolism of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). For that purpose, specimens of 20 g were fed during 8 weeks at 0 and 1.6 g kg(-1) dietary cMOS of inclusion in a commercial sea bass diet. Dietary cMOS enhanced fish length, specific and relative growth without affecting tissue proximate composition. However, cMOS supplementation altered especially liver and muscle fatty acid profiles by reducing levels of those fatty acids that are preferential substrates for β-oxidation in spite of a preferential retention of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), such as 20:4n-6 or 22:5n-6, in relation to the down-regulation of delta 6/5 desaturase gene expression found in liver. Besides, dietary cMOS supplementation reduced posterior gut intestinal folds width and induced changes on the gene expression level of certain immune-related genes mainly by down regulating transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and up-regulating immunoglobulin (Ig), major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII), T cell receptor β (TCRβ) and Caspase 3 (Casp-3). Thus, dietary cMOS inclusion at 0.16% promoted European sea bass specific growth rate and length, stimulated selected cellular GALT-associated parameters and affected lipid metabolism in muscle and liver pointing to a higher LC-PUFA accumulation and promoted β-oxidation.

Journal of Fish Diseases, 2012

The effects of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS; 4 g kg(-1) ; Bio-Mos, Alltech Inc, USA) in d... more The effects of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS; 4 g kg(-1) ; Bio-Mos, Alltech Inc, USA) in diets for European sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax (L.), juveniles in relation to disease and stress resistance, combining intestinal infection with Vibrio anguillarum and stress challenge by confinement, were assessed in this study. After 8 weeks of MOS supplementation, fish were exposed to a pathogen challenge test against V. anguillarum by direct gut inoculation combined with a confinement stressor panel. Cumulative mortality of fish fed MOS caused by anally inoculated V. anguillarum decreased from 66% to 12.5% and from 54.1% to 25% in infected and infected + stressed fish, respectively, compared to fish fed control diet. Results for European sea bass revealed a positive effect of MOS dietary inclusion on disease resistance, in terms of cumulative mortality, against gut inoculated V. anguillarum, as well as reduced effects of stress on microbiota diversity. Both of these findings, together with the enhanced innate immune response and the higher gut mucus production and density of eosinophil granulocytes in gut mucosa obtained in previous studies after MOS supplementation (Torrecillas et al. 2007, 2011a,b) suggest that general reinforcement of the innate immune system, and particularly of the intestinal barrier efficiency, is the main defence mechanism of European sea bass fed MOS against pathogenic microorganisms.

Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 2010

Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 2013

The study assesses the effects of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) in European sea bass (Dic... more The study assesses the effects of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) posterior intestinal lipid class composition and its possible relation to the potential prostaglandins production and Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue (GALT) stimulation. Fish were fed 4 g kg(-1) MOS (Bio-Mos(®) Aquagrade, Alltech, Inc., USA) for eight weeks. Fish fed MOS presented higher (P ≤ 0.05) weight gain, total length, and specific and relative growth rates than fish fed the control diet. Stimulated posterior gut of fish fed MOS showed higher (P ≤ 0.05) prostaglandins production than fish fed the control diet. Lipid class analyses of posterior gut revealed a reduction (P ≤ 0.05) in the neutral lipid fraction in fish fed MOS compared to fish fed the control diet, particularly due to a reduction (P ≤ 0.05) in triacylglycerols content. The polar lipid fraction increased (P ≤ 0.05) in fish fed MOS compared to fish fed the control diet, mainly due to an increase (P ≤ 0.05) in phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcoline contents. Light microscopy of posterior gut revealed increased number or goblet cells as well as higher level of infiltrated eosinophilic granulocytes for fish fed MOS. Transmission electron microscopy qualitative observations revealed a better preserved cytoarchitecture of the intestinal epithelial barrier in the posterior gut of fish fed MOS. Posterior gut of fish fed MOS presented more densely packed non-damaged enterocytes, better preserved tight junctions structure, healthier and more organized microvilli, and a higher presence of infiltrated lymphocytes and granulocytes compared fish fed the control diet. The present study indicates that dietary MOS enhances European sea bass posterior gut epithelial defense by increasing membrane polar lipids content in relation to a stimulation of the eicosanoid cascade and GALT, promoting posterior gut health status.

Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 2011

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of mannan oligosaccharides derived from t... more The objective of this study was to determine the effect of mannan oligosaccharides derived from the outer cell wall of a select strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Bio-Mos, Alltech Inc, USA) on mucus production, selected mucus immune parameters activity, gut morphology and in vivo and ex vivo gut bacterial translocation for European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Specimens were fed 4 g kg⁻¹ dietary MOS level of inclusion in a commercial sea bass diet for eight weeks. At the end of this period, anterior gut mucosal folds height, width and folds surface area were increased by MOS supplementation (P < 0.05, n = 240). Posterior gut presented shorter folds (P < 0.05, n = 240) but wider that those fed control diet (P < 0.05, n = 240) resulting in increased total surface area (P < 0.05, n = 240). For rectum, feeding MOS reduced fold length (P < 0.05, n = 240). Gut morphological analyses showed an enhancement in the number of cells secreting acid mucins by area unit, higher density of eosinophilic granulocytes (ECGs) in the mucosa for fish fed MOS together with an improvement in gut mucus lysozyme activity which could be related to the reduced in vivo and ex vivo gut bacterial translocation found. No differences were found for the skin mucus immune parameters evaluated.

Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A: Molecular & Integrative Physiology, 2008

postprandial hyperemia. The mechanic component is however, most likely, important in that it allo... more postprandial hyperemia. The mechanic component is however, most likely, important in that it allows for an effective shunting of blood from the systemic circulation to the gastrointestinal circulation by increasing the driving force (P da ). Additionally, the rapid increase in Q and q ia as well as the enhanced P da response indicate that there are chemoceptors in the stomach. The effect of dietary mannan oligosaccharides on the intestinal histology of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Aquaculture Research, 2010

The in£uence of dietary mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) on the development, gut integrity and qualit... more The in£uence of dietary mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) on the development, gut integrity and quality (in respect of stamina and survivability) of white sea bream Diplodus sargus L. larvae was investigated. White sea bream larvae were held under appropriate rearing conditions and fed Artemia, enriched by A1 DHA Selco TM with the addition or absence of MOS (Bio-Mos s ). The results indicated that larval growth performance and survivability were not a¡ected by the MOS supplementation. Light microscopy revealed that MOS supplementation signi¢cantly improved the intestinal morphology by increasing the villi surface area by over 12%. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that MOS supplementation increased the microvilli length by 26% compared with the control. Salinity challenge experiments showed that MOS signi¢cantly increased larval stamina and survival in both 0 and 60 mg L À 1 salinity water by 13% and 22.9% respectively. These improvements in the larval quality at the early stages of ¢sh development are important for the e⁄ciency of intensive hatchery production. E¡ect of MOS supplementation on white sea bream larvae A Dimitroglou et al. r 2010 The Authors Journal Compilation r 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd, Aquaculture Research, 41, e245^e251 e247 19.08 AE 1.43 min 23.44 AE 1.44 min 0.020 AU, arbitrary units; MOS, mannan oligosaccharide; PR, perimeter ratio.

Aquaculture Research, 2010

This study aimed to investigate the e¡ect of increased zinc dietary levels on the growth performa... more This study aimed to investigate the e¡ect of increased zinc dietary levels on the growth performance, feed utilization, immune status and induced wound healing in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Fish weighing 10 g were fed ¢ve diets containing organic zinc at 30,70,110 and 150 mg kg À 1 diet and one inorganic zinc source (zinc oxide) at 150 mg kg À 1 diet for a period of 12 weeks. No signi¢cant (P40.05) di¡erences were found in the growth performance parameters (¢nal weight, speci¢c growth rate), immunological indices tested (respiratory burst activity in whole blood) and the wound-healing process. Zinc accumulation in the skin, vertebrae and liver increased signi¢cantly (Po0.01) with increased dietary zinc levels but not in muscle. The highest zinc concentrations were obtained in skin tissue, followed by vertebrae, liver and muscle tissue. Using the concentration of zinc in skin as a response criterion, broken-line analysis showed that the supplementation of 148 mg organic Zn kg À 1 diet seemed to be the optimum dietary zinc supplementation level for sea bass juveniles.

Aquaculture International, 2010

The comparative effects of iron-supplemented levels on growth, tissue distribution, haematology a... more The comparative effects of iron-supplemented levels on growth, tissue distribution, haematology and immunology of gilthead sea bream, Sparus aurata (2 g) were investigated, using four organic (50, 100, 200, 300 mg ORG/kg diet) and one inorganic iron source (200 INOR mg/kg diet). Fish were treated for 12 weeks with the experimental diets and maintained at a water temperature of 19-22°C. Growth (final weight and specific growth rate), tissue distribution (spleen, liver and muscle), haematological parameters (red blood cells, haematocrit, haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration) and non-specific immune indexes (respiratory burst activity and antibacterial activity of serum) were analysed. No significant differences were found in growth and iron tissue distribution among the tested groups. Red blood cell counting was statistically higher in fish given 50 ORG, 100 ORG, 200 ORG and 200 INOR feeds. However, haematocrit, haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration were not significantly affected by increasing dietary iron. Fish receiving the 100 ORG diet had the best performance with respect to the respiratory burst activity and significantly higher values for antibacterial activity of serum were obtained in fish fed with the 300 ORG diet. The present findings provided no clear evidence of the optimum iron concentration. However, there was adequate indication that iron supplementation enhanced the performance of gilthead sea bream, mainly from a haematological and immunological point of view.

Aquaculture, 2010

Two experiments were conducted in order to investigate the effect of dietary mannan oligosacchari... more Two experiments were conducted in order to investigate the effect of dietary mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) on gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata). Experiment I was designed to assess the effect of dietary MOS (0%, 0.2% and 0.4%) on fish fed diets containing fishmeal (FM) as the only protein source. Experiment II was designed to assess the effect of MOS (0% and 0.4%) on fish fed soybean meal (SBM) as a partial replacement of FM (SBM inclusion 31% of diet). After 9 weeks feeding on the experimental diets growth parameters, body composition, liver and intestinal histology and intestinal microbial diversity were assessed. The results showed that mean final weight, specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and protein efficiency ratio (PER) remained unaffected by MOS supplementation of fish fed FM or SBM diets. However, compared to the control group (FM0), condition factor (K) and hepatosomatic index (HSI) were significantly lower in fish fed 0.2% MOS (FM02) and 0.4% MOS (FM04), respectively. These parameters were unaffected in SBM-fed fish. Body proximate composition remained unaffected by MOS supplementation in fish fed either FM or SBM diets (P > 0.05). Histological evaluation revealed that MOS had no effect on glycogen deposition in liver and no effect on gross villi morphology in the anterior intestine in either Experiment I or II. However, relative to the control groups (FM0) dietary MOS appeared to improve gross morphological absorptive surface area in the posterior intestine in Experiment I. Electron microscopy revealed that dietary MOS had a pronounced effect at the ultrastructural level in both experiments, as microvilli density and length were elevated in both intestinal regions in fish fed both the FM and SBM based diets. No significant histological differences were found between respective FM0 and SBM0 groups. DGGE analysis revealed that both SBM and MOS affected the intestinal microbial species richness and diversity. However, the effect of dietary MOS on the gastrointestinal microbiota was more pronounced in FM-based diets (Experiment I) as was reflected by increased species richness and diversity and reduced similarity between microbial profiles of the different FM groups. The effect of MOS in Experiment II on SBMfed fish was marginal, as species richness and diversity remained unaffected and similarity between microbial profiles of the SBM groups and replicates remained high (i.e. >80%). Dietary SBM exerted a greater effect on gut microbiota than dietary MOS.

Aquaculture, 2009

ABSTRACT Commercial salmonid diets are not typically supplemented with selenium (Se) as they natu... more ABSTRACT Commercial salmonid diets are not typically supplemented with selenium (Se) as they naturally contain relatively high levels of this essential trace element; however supplementation may be necessary to meet requirements during physical stress. Adopting an integrated approach by simultaneously determining Se status, various health parameters and interactions with other trace elements, this study aimed to determine the role of supra-supplemented selenite and Se-yeast (Selplex®) on the growth and health of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), both under normal conditions and after exposure to chronic physical stress. Fish were fed one of seven diets; a basal un-supplemented diet (0.73 mg kg− 1 Se) or diets supplemented with Se-yeast or sodium selenite to provide 2, 4, or 8 mg kg− 1 Se for 10 weeks prior to subjection of daily handling and confinement stressors for seven days. Net whole body Se retention was significantly greater for Se-yeast than selenite at all levels. In normal conditions activities of hepatic glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and thioredoxin reductase (Trx-R) indicate that Se requirements were met by the basal diet. Similarly, pre-stress supra-supplementation of selenite and Se-yeast did not affect oxidative status (total antioxidant capacity of serum and hepatic malondialdehyde), immuno-competence (respiratory burst activity, serum lysozyme, and leukocyte counts) or other haematological and growth parameters (nuclear abnormalities in erythrocytes, and specific growth rate). In contrast, the trend towards a higher GSH-Px post-stress in Se supplemented diets over the basal diet, particularly in Se-yeast fed fish, indicates that Se requirements may not be met by the un-supplemented practical diet in stressed fish. Seven days of chronic physical stress decreased whole body Se and increased GSH-Px activity signifying an increased Se utilisation. During stress Se status was more effectively maintained by Se-yeast than selenite. Increased hepatic lipid peroxidation in stressed fish fed 8 mg kg− 1 selenite indicates a possible pro-oxidant effect of selenite. A positive interaction was observed between dietary selenite and whole body copper, but no such interaction was observed with Se-yeast. This study concludes that physical stressors can result in an elevated Se utilisation and consequently supplementation of commercial diets may be necessary such that Se reserves are available as a contingency for stress.

Aquaculture Research, 2010

The promotion of nutritional strategies that optimize natural defence mechanisms in ¢sh is of cri... more The promotion of nutritional strategies that optimize natural defence mechanisms in ¢sh is of critical importance in producing robust juveniles and adult ¢sh. These animals are more capable of minimizing the impact of opportunistic pathogen attack, thus improving liveability and performance characteristics. The importance of the piscine gastrointestinal tract as a major endocrine and osmoregulatory organ is well reported as is its function as a defensive barrier to pathogen attack. Investigations using the inclusion of a speci¢c structural form of mannan oligosaccharide have been shown to improve the performance parameters, immune status, and gut morphology and improve an important aspect of barrier protection through the enhancement of mucal production in a number of aquaculture species. The selenium status of an animal is pivotal in determining the success of the innate and adaptive immune response of the animal, and the use of an organic selenium source, in the form of a selenoyeast, has been shown to improve enzyme function and tissue uptake. The antioxidant role of many of the selenoptroteins and the role of selenium in the glutathione peroxidase enzyme pathways involved in the control of oxidative stress is critical if oxidative damage and cell membrane lipid peroxidation are to be prevented.The use of these compounds as feed additives has important implications for health management in commercial aquaculture facilities. Further research is needed to evaluate the bene¢ts o¡ered by a range of commercial products.