Effects of probiotic (Pediococcus acidilactici) on heamatological parameters, immunological responses and digestive enzymes of Astacus leptodactylus juveniles

In this study, the effect of four levels of probiotic Pediococcus acidilactici on the diet of Astacus leptodactylus juveniles, on immunological parameters of hemolymph and enzyme systems, was investigated. Juvenile crayfish, weighing 10 to 20g, was fed in 4 groups of probiotic concentrations and one control group with three replicates for 84 days. At the end of the experimental period, the sampling of hemolymph in order to measure the hemolymph, immune and enzyme indices and crayfish intestines for digestive enzymes was performed. The results of all treatments and control showed that the highest to lowest homocysts belonged to semi-granitic, large granular and hyaline, respectively. The total number of hemocytes, semi-granular hemocytes, large granular hemocytes and hyaline in probiotic-treated treatments increased significantly compared to the control (P<0.05). In addition, the activity of superoxide dismutase and phenol oxidase in the hemolymph of crayfish showed a significant increase (P<0.05). Measuring the activity of digestive enzymes including lipase, amylase and protease showed a significant positive effect on all three enzymes (P<0.05). Considering the positive and significant effects of probiotic P. acidilactici on immunological and digestive indices of young crayfish, it can be used to further increase in the productivity.