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Non-Specific Immunity Associated Gut Microbiome in Aristichthys nobilis under Different Rearing Strategies
Jianming Yuan1,2, Zhijian Wang2, Bo Wang2
1Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Resources and Reproductive Development, Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
Genes
|July 2, 2021
Summary
Feeding strategies significantly alter bighead carp gut microbiota and immune responses. Supplementing with formulated feeds and lactic acid bacteria enhanced microbial diversity and modulated key immune enzymes.
Area of Science:
- Aquaculture
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Bighead carp (Aristichthys nobilis) aquaculture relies on understanding gut health.
- Feeding strategies can impact fish physiology and microbial communities.
- Non-specific immunity plays a crucial role in fish health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of different feeding strategies on the intestinal microbial diversity and community structure of bighead carp.
- To analyze the relationship between gut microbiota and non-specific immune indices in bighead carp.
- To provide insights into optimizing feeding strategies for improved fish health.
Main Methods:
- High-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyze gut microbial communities.
- Five non-specific immune indices (lysozyme, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase) were measured.
- Fish were divided into three groups with distinct feeding strategies: natural live food only, natural live food + formulated feeds, and natural live food + formulated feed + lactic acid bacteria.
Main Results:
- Feeding strategies significantly affected gut microbiota composition and non-specific immune indices.
- Groups B (natural live food + formulated feeds) and C (natural live food + formulated feed + lactic acid bacteria) exhibited higher microbial diversity.
- Significant differences in enzyme activity were observed in the spleen and hepatopancreas across the groups, with notable shifts in the relative abundance of Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Firmicutes.
Conclusions:
- Dietary interventions, including formulated feeds and lactic acid bacteria, can modulate the gut microbiome and enhance the immune status of bighead carp.
- The study highlights the intricate connection between gut microbial communities and host immunity in fish.
- Findings offer valuable information for developing effective feeding strategies in bighead carp aquaculture.

