Abstract

The production of aquatic organisms for human consumption has been decreasing while its demand has increased. The decline of fish products from fisheries has been in part compensated by the aquaculture industry. The need for enhanced disease resistance, feed efficiency, growth performance and lower production costs of cultured organisms is substantial for various sectors of this industry. Different products have been used at some extent to prevent disease and as growth promoters; however, their inadequate application can create adverse disorders, environmental imbalances, and increase predisposition to disease. In the search of new disease control and prevention options, several studies have been carried out to test some functional additives (probiotics). Probiotics have been shown to improve energy expenditure derived from sources such as carbohydrates and increase the incorporation of protein for growth; and to increase the immunity and disease resistance of the host. The use of probiotics in aquaculture has high potential application at a commercial level; however, it has been poorly characterized and studied. This study aims to review the use and action of probiotics in the culture of aquatic organisms (bivalve, fish, shrimp); and the potential for further application of this in aquaculture production.

Key words: Aquatic organisms, functional additives, probiotic.