Moringa Leaf Extract Enhances Immune Responses in Pacific White Shrimp – texasagpress

Date: 14 March 2022
Authors: Zaenal Abidin, Ph.D., Huai-Ting Huang, Ph.D., Zhen-Hao Liao, Ph.D., Bo-Ying Chen, Ph.D., Yu-Sheng Wu, Ph.D., Yu-Ju Lin, Ph.D., Fan-Hua Nan, Ph.D.

Introduction

The aquaculture industry faces numerous challenges, particularly concerning the health and survival of farmed shrimp species like the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). One of the most significant threats is the pathogenic marine bacterium Vibrio alginolyticus, which can lead to high mortality rates and substantial economic losses for shrimp farmers. To combat these challenges, researchers are exploring various dietary immunostimulants, with herbal options emerging as a promising alternative. This article delves into a study that highlights the potential of moringa leaf extract as a dietary supplement to improve shrimp growth and resistance to disease.

Figure: Moringa leaf extract has shown potential in enhancing the immune responses and growth of Pacific white shrimp. Photo by Obsidian Soul, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.

The Promise of Moringa

Moringa, scientifically known as Moringa oleifera, is a fast-growing, drought-resistant plant native to the Indian subcontinent. Renowned for its nutritional value, moringa is rich in fibers, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and lipids. Beyond its nutritional benefits, moringa possesses various pharmacological properties, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects, attributed to its bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids and flavonoids.

Previous studies on aquatic animals, including various shrimp species, tilapia, and trout, have indicated that moringa leaf extracts can enhance growth and physiological functions while upregulating immune-related gene expressions. However, the potential toxicological effects of moringa at higher concentrations necessitate careful dosage assessment.

Study Overview

The study, adapted from the original publication by Abidin et al. (2022), aimed to investigate the effects of moringa leaf extract on immune responses, growth, and resistance to Vibrio alginolyticus in Pacific white shrimp. The shrimp were acclimated in controlled laboratory conditions and fed a commercial diet before being subjected to experimental treatments with varying concentrations of moringa extract.

Experimental Setup

Healthy shrimp were selected for the study, and moringa leaves were processed into a fine powder and extracted with hot distilled water. The resulting extract was freeze-dried and stored for further use. The study involved both in vitro and in vivo assessments to evaluate the viability of hemocytes (immune cells) and the overall growth performance of the shrimp.

Results and Discussion

Immune Response and Hemocyte Viability

The in vitro assessment revealed that hemocyte viability remained stable at lower concentrations (25–250 ppm) of moringa extract, while higher concentrations (500–2,000 ppm) led to decreased viability. This suggests that moringa extract is safe for hemocytes at lower dosages, emphasizing the importance of determining the appropriate concentration for optimal immune support.

Growth Performance

During the 60-day rearing period, shrimp fed diets containing moringa extract exhibited improved growth compared to the control group. Notably, the ME2.5 group (2.5 grams of moringa extract per kg of diet) demonstrated significant weight gain and a favorable feed conversion rate. However, the survival rates across treatment groups did not show significant differences, indicating that while moringa enhances growth, it does not adversely affect survival.

Resistance to Vibrio alginolyticus

The study also included a challenge test with Vibrio alginolyticus. The unchallenged control group maintained a 100% survival rate, while treatment groups showed varying survival rates after bacterial exposure. Notably, shrimp fed the ME5.0 diet for seven days exhibited significantly higher survival rates compared to the control group, highlighting the potential of moringa extract to bolster shrimp immunity against pathogenic threats.

Conclusion and Future Perspectives

The findings of this study underscore the potential of dietary moringa supplementation to enhance the immune responses and growth performance of Pacific white shrimp. Specifically, a dosage of 2.5 grams per kg of diet was identified as optimal for improving resistance to Vibrio alginolyticus infection. As the aquaculture industry continues to seek sustainable and effective solutions to health challenges, moringa leaf extract presents a viable option for shrimp farmers aiming to improve production outcomes.

Call to Action

As we conclude this exploration of moringa’s potential in aquaculture, we invite readers to consider supporting the Global Seafood Alliance’s mission to promote responsible seafood practices. By becoming a member, you can contribute to the advancement of sustainable aquaculture and access valuable resources and events. Join us in our commitment to fostering responsible seafood practices for a healthier ocean and a more sustainable future.

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