Assessment of dietary inclusion of crude or hydrolysed Arthrospira platensis biomass in starter diets for gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata)

This work evaluates the effects of dietary inclusion crude or hydrolysed Arthrospira platensis (Cyanobacteria) biomass on growth, muscle composition, digestive functionality and immune activities in gilthead seabream ( Sparus aurata ) fry (20.32 mg mean body weight). A 40-day feeding trial was conducted, aimed at assessing four experimental diets that included 5 10% (w/w) A. , either hydrolysed, plus a microalgae-free diet as control batch. Overall, none treatments caused negative impacts fish fatty acid profile, innate response. Thus, both reduced significantly oxidation lipids, especially when using biomass, regardless level. In relation to enzymes, higher levels trypsin, chymotrypsin leucine aminopeptidase were measured fed -supplemented compared fish. addition, within each level (5 w/w), those animals with yielded consistently enzyme than receiving biomass. Microalgae also induced favourable changes gut morphology, according increase microvilli length diameter observed. fact might well have contributed reinforce role intestinal mucosa protective barrier against microorganisms, enhance absorptive capacity mucosa. Finally, microalgae hydrolysate enhanced lysozyme activity liver, this suggesting improved protection infectious diseases. conclusion, positive observed including up (not least biomass) regard different parameters assessed (digestive activities, epithelium ultrastructure, lipid oxidation, activity) suggest benefits product starter feeds for fry. • Crude can be used Inclusion prevented Hydrolysed S.