The Biobrio 12(3&4), 2025

Fish Gut Microbiota: Roles, Functional Mechanisms and Aquaculture Applications

Madhuri Kumari Das

ABSTRACT:

Gut bacteria play a crucial role in maintaining fish health, growth, immune function, and nutrient utilization, determining the long-term viability of fish culture systems. Understanding fish gut microbiota has become increasingly essential for boosting productivity and disease control as aquaculture continues to expand in scale. This review summarizes and synthesizes existing information about the variety, composition, and functional activities of gut bacteria in cultured fish species. According to 16S rRNA gene sequencing studies, the fish gut microbiota is dominated by a conserved core community consisting mostly of Proteobacteria, Fusobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, however there is substantial interspecific and environmental heterogeneity. Gut bacteria aid in digestion, immunological regulation, growth promotion, and stress tolerance while also interacting with the aquatic environment. The use of probiotics, prebiotics, and microbiome-based therapies in aquaculture has showed promise for increasing fish health and culture efficiency. This study addresses current advancements, problems, and future opportunities for gut microbiome research in fish culture, with a focus on its potential role in promoting sustainable aquaculture and food security.

Keywords:    

Gut microbiota; Aquaculture; Fish culture; Probiotics; Immune modulation; Sustainable fisheries

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