Probiotics are widely used in commercial shrimp aquaculture, but responses are variable. The objectives of this study were to quantitatively review using meta-analysis the production, survival, and immune responses of Macrobrachium rosenbergii to probiotics (Lactobacillus or Bacillus) and to identify sources of residual variation.

💡 The results indicate that interventions with probiotics in M. rosenbergii improved growth performance and survival, may be influenced by probiotic agents, and are likely to lead to economic benefits for industry.

📌 Research Highlights:
▶Probiotics improved the specific growth rate in M. rosenbergii.
▶Feed to gain was improved with probiotics in M. rosenbergii.
▶Variation in the response of M. rosenbergii to probiotics was largely attributable to study conduct.
▶Covariables rarely explained variation in response of M. rosenbergii to probiotics.
▶Probiotic agent may influence outcomes in M. rosenbergii.

🎯 Probiotics can be an effective way at increasing the health and production of giant freshwater prawns. A focus of our work here at Regen Aquaculture has been to further explore the cultivation of low-cost highly effective microbial inoculants and biostimulants on-site.  Interested in learning how to cultivate your own microbes? Let us know in the comments below.

📷 Image: Mechanisms of probiotic actions in shrimp Credits: Lazado, Carlo C. et al. “Mechanisms of probiotic actions in shrimp: Implications to tropical aquaculture.” (2015).

Golder, Helen M. et al. “Effects of Probiotic Interventions on Production Efficiency, Survival Rate, and Immune Responses of Macrobrachium Rosenbergii (de Man) Prawns: A Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression.” Aquaculture 555 (2022): 738213. Crossref. Web.

FAQs

Q1: Can probiotics replace traditional disease management strategies in prawn aquaculture?

While probiotics show promise in disease mitigation, they are most effective when integrated into a comprehensive disease management strategy that includes biosecurity measures and appropriate husbandry practices.

Q2: How do environmental factors influence the effectiveness of probiotic interventions?

Environmental factors, such as water quality and temperature, can significantly impact the effectiveness of probiotic interventions. Considering these factors in probiotic implementation is crucial for optimal results.

Q3: Are there specific probiotic strains more effective for Macrobrachium Rosenbergii?

The meta-analysis did not focus on specific probiotic strains. Future research could delve into identifying strains with superior benefits for Macrobrachium Rosenbergii prawns.