The role of carotenoids in enhancing the health of aquatic organisms

Abstract

Carotenoids constitute a class of pigments derived from photosynthetic plants, algae, bacteria and some fungi. Carotenoids act as potent antioxidants scavenging reactive oxygen species. They hold a vital role in the antioxidant defense system of humans. Several studies have shown carotenoid can increase the growth overall well being of aquatic animals. This review examined the effect of carotenoid in aquatic organisms on growth, survival, immunity, pigmentation and reproductive performance. The review recommends the use of carotenoid as feed additive for enhance the overall improvement of the aquatic organisms.