Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 11 Issue 4 2019
Currently, aquaculture production applies conditions that are sub-optimal to the physiological condition of the species. High-stocking densities, poor water quality or fluctuations in water temperature lead to an excessive production of prooxidant molecules that can surpass the capacity of the antioxidant mechanisms of the animal. Furthermore, genetic selection aims for growth at the maximum rates which diverts resources away from self-maintenance processes such as antioxidant protection and is associated with excessive prooxidants production. Therefore, maintaining balance in the animal’s antioxidant system must be a priority for nutritionists.
Selenium plays a very important role in antioxidant defence, with the organic forms being the most effective. Recently published trials have shown that providing organic selenium in the form of hydroxyselenomethionine (OH-SeMet) to fish increased selenium deposition in tissues and transfer of selenoproteins to progeny. This translates into improved antioxidant capacity and ability to cope with stress.
It was also found that supplementation with OHSeMet reduces lipid peroxidation in muscle, potentially increasing shelf life of fillet. Researchers concluded that supplying selenium as OH-SeMet was advantageous in ensuring optimal performance and quality traits.
By Waldo G. Nuez-Ortin, Michele de Marco, Aurélie Moal, ADISSEO