Use of probiotics for sustainable aquaculture production in Nigeria

Abstract

Aquaculture is fast developing in Nigeria but to ensure a sustainable development there is need to address problem of diseases which is an important issue affecting the aquaculture production. Though the use of antimicrobial drugs has helped in some ways, the notorious effects of antibiotics has necessitated seeking an alternative that is environmental friendly and safe for the organisms and consumers. Probiotics has been established to be a good alternative and its use is now gaining acceptance. This review aims to define the concept of probiotics, highlights the process of isolation and methods of application as well as its current status, challenges and prospects in Nigeria. Probiotics are entire or components of microorganisms that are beneficial to the health of a host. They are naturally present in the organism and or the culture medium and have different mechanisms of action. They are usually isolated from the gill, skin or culture medium and pass through isolation processes to obtain the desired strains and applied in-vitro or in-vivo. Probiotics is a natural ingredient in finfish, shellfish and culture environment and its appropriate application will save Nigeria aquaculture from losses due to diseases. It will make available, aquaculture products that are safe for consumption as well ensuring a healthy aquatic environment. However research should be conducted to make available, products that suit the local species and environment in commercial forms. Also, safety issues should be considered at all time.

Key words: sustainable production, fish culture, probiotics, antibiotics, diseases.