The effects of microbial dietary supplements on reproduction of ornamental fish

During the last decade, aquaculture was among the fastest growing industry. Along with this growth and expansion, performing research projects on various aspect of ornamental fish aquaculture is of high importance. In spite of the extensive research on the effects of microbial dietary supplements include probiotics and synbiotics on growth performance, immune response and disease resistance, there is limited information regarding the possible effects and the mode of action of microbial dietary supplements on reproductive performance of ornamental fish. The results of previous studies regarding the effects of probiotics on reproductive performance of fresh water species like guppy (Poecilia reticulate), Mexican molly (Poecilia sphenops), green swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri), southern platyfish (Xiphophorus maculates) and zebrafish revealed beneficial effects of probiotics on reproductive performance. These results hint at a relationship between intestinal microbiota and the process involved in reproduction. However, the mechanism by with probiotics affect the reproductive performance has not been elucidated yet and merit further research.