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        <title>Frontiers in Aquaculture | New and Recent Articles</title>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aquaculture</link>
        <description>RSS Feed for Frontiers in Aquaculture | New and Recent Articles</description>
        <language>en-us</language>
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        <pubDate>2026-05-14T21:21:43.276+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1812341</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1812341</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Cellular and humoral immunity in shellfish: foundations for sustainable health management in aquaculture]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-11T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Vishal Soni</author><author>Md. Idrish Raja Khan</author><author>Rachna Gulati</author><author>Dalip Kumar Bishnoi</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Shellfish, including crustaceans and molluscs, inhabit aquatic environments that are densely populated with microorganisms and are therefore continuously exposed to a wide range of potential pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoans, and parasites. Unlike vertebrates, shellfish lack a true adaptive immune system and rely entirely on highly conserved innate immune mechanisms for survival. The innate immune system of shellfish is broadly divided into cellular and humoral components, supported by multiple physical and physiological defence barriers. Cellular immunity is primarily mediated by haemocytes, which are commonly classified into hyaline, semigranular, and granular cells. These immune cells perform essential defensive functions including phagocytosis, encapsulation, nodule formation, cytotoxic responses, and haemolymph clotting. Haemocytes also regulate key immune signalling pathways, particularly the prophenoloxidase (proPO) cascade, which plays a critical role in melanisation and pathogen elimination. Complementing cellular defences, humoral immunity involves a diverse array of soluble effector molecules such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), lectins, lysozymes, clotting proteins, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and complement-like factors that directly neutralize invading pathogens and enhance haemocyte-mediated responses. Although shellfish lack antibody-based immunological memory, the rapid and coordinated interaction between cellular and humoral immune mechanisms enables them to maintain effective defence against pathogens in microbe-rich aquatic environments. This review synthesizes recent advances in the understanding of shellfish immune mechanisms, integrating current knowledge on haemocyte-mediated cellular responses, humoral immune effectors, and major immune signalling pathways involved in pathogen recognition and defence. Furthermore, emerging concepts such as immune priming and their potential applications in disease prevention are highlighted. By providing an updated and integrated perspective on shellfish immunity, this review offers insights into how innate immune mechanisms can be leveraged to develop improved disease management strategies, immunostimulants, and sustainable health management approaches in modern shellfish aquaculture.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1777546</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1777546</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Mitochondrial marker-based insights into the genetic diversity and population connectivity of the vulnerable (IUCN Red List) snow trout (Schizothorax plagiostomus) from the Tons River, Western Himalaya]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-08T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Pooja Badoni</author><author>J. V. S. Rauthan</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionAdvanced molecular tools have a significant role in the growth of sustainable aquaculture systems. Their immense contribution is particularly notable among cold-water fish in the Himalayan regions, where available genetic data is limited.MethodologyThis study aimed to evaluate the specific characteristics, such as genetic diversity and population structure, of vulnerable Schizothorax plagiostomus (Cyprinidae) in the Tons River, a major tributary of the Yamuna River in Uttarakhand. Mitochondrial markers, namely COI and Cytb, were utilised for the analysis.ResultsIn this study, a total of 40 S. plagiostomus sequences, from concatenated COI and Cytb (762 bp), were analysed. Major findings observed 10 haplotypes in COI and 12 in Cytb, indicating relatively higher diversity in Cytb than in COI. Whereas 20 haplotypes were observed in the concatenated sequences, representing overall moderate genetic diversity among populations.ConclusionS. plagiostomus is listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List. This study revealed that despite historical population declines, the species still retains considerable genetic variation. Conserving this existing moderately high genetic variation is important for maintaining the long-term evolutionary potential of this species. This study provides the first mitochondrial baseline data for S. plagiostomus in the Tons River. And also demonstrates how genetic markers function as advanced tools for conservation and sustainable aquaculture development in Himalayan cold-water species. The moderately high mitochondrial diversity observed suggests the presence of diverse maternal lineages. However, further investigation using nuclear markers is required to fully assess genetic diversity and cryptic structure. Furthermore, the study demonstrates the usefulness of mitochondrial markers for assessing genetic diversity.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1809406</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1809406</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Chitosan as a functional ingredient in Nile tilapia sausages: enhancing antioxidant capacity, technological performance, nutritional quality, and consumer acceptance]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-07T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Fernando Pinheiro dos Santos</author><author>Maria Ildilene da Silva</author><author>Valfredo Figueira da Silva</author><author>Josenildes Botelho</author><author>Milton Teixeira de Moraes Júnior</author><author>Gislaine Gonçalves Oliveira</author><author>Elavarasan Krishnamoorthy</author><author>Elenice Souza dos Reis Goes</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundChitosan has gained increasing attention as a multifunctional ingredient due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and techno-functional properties, with potential applications in improving the quality of fish-based products. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of chitosan addition on the physical, chemical, and sensory characteristics of Nile tilapia sausages.MethodsFour formulations were prepared with different chitosan inclusion levels (0, 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75%, w/w), with chitosan pre-solubilized in acetic acid and directly incorporated into the sausage matrix during the emulsification process. Proximate composition, caloric value, antioxidant capacity, cooking loss (CL), water-holding capacity (WHC), shear force, color, pH, and sensory attributes were assessed.ResultsMoisture content increased from 67.07% to 69.52%, and protein content from 15.65% to 16.69% with 0.75% (w/w) chitosan inclusion. Lipid content significantly decreased from 9.73% to 6.97%, resulting in a reduction of approximately 12% in caloric value (from 173.88 to 152.39 kcal/100 g). Antioxidant capacity increased linearly with chitosan addition, reaching more than 40% higher ABTS and DPPH inhibition compared to the control. pH decreased from 6.53 to 6.27, while lightness (L*) increased from 63.46 to 66.64 and redness (a*) decreased from 2.48 to 1.33. Cooking loss was reduced by more than half (13.17% to 5.70%), accompanied by an increase in WHC (from 73.12% to 78.92%) and shear force (from 0.26 to 0.76 N). Sensory analysis indicated higher acceptance for sausages containing chitosan, with the acceptability index exceeding 70% in all treatments.ConclusionIn conclusion, the inclusion of up to 0.75% chitosan improves emulsion stability, texture, antioxidant capacity, and overall sensory acceptance of Nile tilapia sausages, highlighting its potential as a multifunctional ingredient in fish-based products.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1813350</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1813350</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Modelling cage-level dissolved oxygen variation within salmon farms]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-29T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Evelina Veronica Christina Berntsson</author><author>Morten Omholt Alver</author><author>Kristian Hovde Liland</author><author>Tor Kristian Stevik</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Dissolved oxygen (DO) is a critical factor for animal welfare and production performance in Atlantic salmon sea cage farming, but is challenging to monitor and manage in the complex farm environment due to complex interactions between the environmental variation, large fish populations, farm structures, and production activities. Understanding this intra-farm variation in DO is therefore key to improving management and production outcomes. In this study, we combine in-situ environmental measurements and production data with a mathematical model that simulates DO variation at the cage-level. The approach is applied to three commercial sea cage farms to understand production limitations not captured by sensors and to identify key drivers of DO variation using a statistical model. The results show substantial intra-farm variation in DO. The model output indicates more severe conditions than suggested by the in-situ measurements, with estimated production impairment up to 65 percentage points greater at the modelled cage-level. From July to October, model outputs indicate that all sites experienced continuous DO levels below maximum feed intake, for 62-80% of the time, with periods of heightened welfare risks. Environmental factors were identified as the main drivers of variation, while 13-15% was attributed to farm-controlled factors, including cage position, biomass and feed ration. These results demonstrate that integrating in-situ measurements with modelling can reveal intra-farm dynamics not captured by standard monitoring methods. By augmenting local sensors with mathematical and statistical models, a method for aligning operations to environmental restrictions and a greater precision in farm management is offered, without the need for dense sensor networks. Adjusting the number, placement and quality of the sensors, according to where the models have the highest benefit, will further improve the potential of future farm management.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1814106</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1814106</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Impact of flavonoids as functional food additives on the health of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-22T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Mediha Yildirim-Aksoy</author><author>Janset Aksoy</author><author>Yunus Emre Ozdemir</author><author>Benjamin H. Beck</author><author>Burak Aksoy</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Flavonoids, with their diverse bioactive properties, are a group of over 4,000 naturally occurring phenolic compounds found in plants. They are mainly categorized into six classes: flavanones, flavones, flavonols, isoflavonoids, anthocyanins, and flavans. This study evaluates the effects of three flavonoids (catechin, quercetin, and hesperidin) on growth, feed utilization, hematological parameters, serum biochemistry, immune responses, and Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, resistance to bacterial challenges. Two dietary levels (0.1% and 1.0%) of each flavonoid and a control diet were offered twice daily to three replicate groups of tilapia (initial weight 11.5g) for 8 weeks. High levels (1%) of both quercetin and catechin resulted in reduced weight gain and feed consumption. At 1% inclusion levels, hesperidin significantly enhanced serum complement activities, while catechin increased serum globulin levels. However, catechin reduced erythrocyte count, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit at this concentration, whereas quercetin decreased liver size and lipid content. Both dietary hesperidin and catechin concentrations (0.1% and 1.0%) significantly improved survival rates following a challenge with Streptococcus iniae compared to the control group. In conclusion, hesperidin can be used effectively as a functional feed additive in tilapia diets at concentrations up to 1%. It enhances immunity and offers better protection against S. iniae. Similarly, lower concentrations of catechin (<1%) can also be beneficial for protecting against S. iniae.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1805926</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1805926</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Large-scale molecular serogroup analysis of Flavobacterium psychrophilum isolates recovered from captive, wild, and feral fishes in the USA]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Sean M. G. Lennox</author><author>Christopher Knupp</author><author>Esteban Soto</author><author>Douglas R. Call</author><author>Pierre Nicolas</author><author>Thomas P. Loch</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Flavobacterium psychrophilum, causative agent of bacterial coldwater disease (BCWD) and rainbow trout fry syndrome (RTFS), is one of the most problematic bacterial pathogens affecting captive-reared salmonids (Family Salmonidae) worldwide. Considerable efforts have been undertaken to characterize the genetic diversity of F. psychrophilum using multilocus sequence typing (MLST) in the United States and elsewhere. In comparison, few studies have sought to characterize the serovariation of F. psychrophilum in the USA. To this end, 320 F. psychrophilum isolates, originating from 17 US states that were recovered from 12 fish species and 1 hybrid from 1981 to 2021, were analyzed using a multiplex polymerase chain reaction molecular serogrouping scheme. Results revealed substantial F. psychrophilum serovariation, with identification of all currently recognized molecular serogroups (i.e., Serogroups -0, -1, -2, -3, and -4). Significant associations between F. psychrophilum molecular serogroup and host fish species were identified: positive associations included rainbow/steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and Serogroup-2, and coho salmon (O. kisutch) and Serogroup-0; negative associations included rainbow/steelhead trout and Serogroup-0 as well as coho salmon and Serogroups-1 and -2. Some regional variation in the distribution of F. psychrophilum molecular serogroups was also apparent. Pairing MLST and molecular serogroup data uncovered further evidence of F. psychrophilum vertical transmission occurring in hatchery environments. Collectively, these findings provide a foundation for future F. psychrophilum vaccine research and further clarify the epidemiology of this problematic bacterium.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1796470</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1796470</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Circular valorisation of fish processing by-products: integrated protease recovery and functional protein hydrolysate production]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-15T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Wan Yusmanira Enche Khawari</author><author>Nordiana Othman</author><author>Muhammad Harith Danial Fabil</author><author>Nur Yuhasliza Abd Rashid</author><author>Fadzlie Wong Faizal Wong</author>
        <description><![CDATA[The fishing industry’s increasing production on a global scale has led to significant waste generation, posing environmental concerns and opportunities for valorisation. This review explores the potential of fish processing by-products as a source of valuable biomaterials, emphasising the interconnected roles of proteases and protein hydrolysates in transforming waste into high-value products. The use of endogenous proteases from fish viscera and commercial enzymes is effective in producing bioactive peptides with a variety of suitable applications in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceutical products. The production of fish protein hydrolysates (FPH) via enzymatic hydrolysis has become a viable method for repurposing protein-rich waste products, as FPH demonstrates significant nutritional benefits, bioactive peptides, and uses in the food and aquaculture industries. The review also delves deeper into the classification, anatomical sources, and recovery of endogenous proteases from fish by-products, highlighting their potential as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to commercial enzymes. Alternative purification methods, such as aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) and three-phase partitioning (TPP), are efficient and cost-effective for recovering and purifying proteases from fish waste, offering advantages over conventional methods. The applications of fish proteases in various industries, including food, detergent, leather, pharmaceutical, and aquafeed, are also discussed, emphasising the importance of purity levels for different applications. In conclusion, fish waste valorisation has the potential to contribute to environmental protection, food security, and sustainable bio-based material production. Future studies should focus on optimising hydrolysis process variables, exploring the use of stable and naturally derived enzyme preparations, and conducting extensive in vivo testing to support health-related claims. Collaboration between stakeholders, including researchers, industry actors, and policymakers, is essential for achieving a shift from a linear “catch-processing-discarding” system to a circular system, which in turn will promote a more sustainable and eco-friendly fishing industry.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1799404</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1799404</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Interactive effects of dietary fishmeal level and feeding frequency on growth performance, nutrient utilization, and waste outputs in juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Hector Victor Vedasto</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Optimizing feeding strategies that balance growth performance with environmental sustainability is critical for intensive aquaculture. This study evaluated the interactive effects of dietary fishmeal and feeding frequency on the growth performance; body composition; balance of nitrogen, carbon, and phosphorus; and waste output in largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides. A 2 × 3 experimental design was used, with two fishmeal levels, 350 g kg−1 (high fishmeal, HFM) and 210 g kg−1 (low fishmeal, LFM), at three feeding frequencies—once a day (F1), twice a day (F2), and three times a day (F3)—forming six treatments: HFMF1, HFMF2, HFMF3, LFMF1, LFMF2, and LFMF3. The experiment lasted for 5 weeks due to typhoon. Growth performance improved significantly with increasing feeding frequency across both diets, with fish fed three times daily displaying the highest weight gain. The LFM diets resulted in moderately lower growth; however, increasing the feeding frequency compensated for much of this reduction. The retention efficiencies for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and carbon (C) declined at the highest feeding frequency, indicating a reduced metabolic efficiency. Waste output modeling showed that higher feeding frequencies increased both solid and dissolved nutrient losses, with LFM diets producing proportionally more dissolved nutrient waste relative to HFM diets. Although three meals per day maximized growth, it also intensified the nutrient discharge per unit of production. Feeding twice daily provided a balanced strategy, achieving high growth performance while limiting nutrient waste. The findings demonstrate that 350 g kg−1 fishmeal combined with two meals per day provides high growth performance, efficient nutrient utilization, and lower environmental waste load. Moreover, increasing the feeding frequency can mitigate reduced fishmeal inclusion, but at the cost of higher waste outputs. The study stresses the importance of the integration of feeding frequency with diet formulation to improve nutrient utilization and sustainability in largemouth bass aquaculture.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1771660</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1771660</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Ecotoxicological effects of low-density polyethylene microplastic on Heteropneustes fossilis: behavioral, hematological, biochemical, and histopathological impacts]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Rohit Kumar Gautam</author><author>Mahender Singh</author><author>Bulbul Ali</author><author>Neelam Sharma</author><author>Ashish Sahu</author><author>Abha Mishra</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionMicroplastics (MPs) ingestion has been demonstrated in several living organisms, indicating the widespread dispersion of these tiny particles throughout aquatic ecosystems. In the present study, we elucidate the concentration-dependent ecotoxicological effects of low-density polyethylene microplastics (LDPE MPs) on the commercially important freshwater fish Heteropneustes fossilis.MethodsExperimental set up [one control and different concentration (100, 500, 1000 μg/L) of LDPE MPs exposed groups] had six fish per group for seven days duration. Exposed fish specimens were evaluated for behavioral, hematological (direct, indirect parameters), biochemical (glycogen, lipid, and protein), antioxidant stress enzymes (superoxide dismutase, SOD; catalase, CAT; peroxidase, POD; and lipid peroxidation, LPO), and histopathological changes in major vital organs compared to the control experimental group.ResultsThe hematological indices (RBC counts, Hb, Hct, and MCHC) showed a significant decline after exposure to MPs. The biochemical changes were tissue-specific, following the order: Muscle > Gill > Intestine > Brain > Kidney > Liver. Histopathological damage was recorded as maximum in the gills, followed by the intestine, stomach, liver, and kidney. The least damage was in the brain. The antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and POD) showed a decline, whereas LPO levels increased at higher MPs concentrations, indicating oxidative stress compared to the control group.DiscussionThe study demonstrated that LDPE MPs exert adverse effects on target organs and significantly alter the immune response in MPs exposed experimental fish, H. fossilis.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1779691</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1779691</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of various alternative stunning techniques on welfare indicators and meat quality of Nile tilapia]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-27T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Arnan Hirunratanakorn</author><author>Jidapa Yamkasem</author><author>Natthakul Youngnoi</author><author>Piyathip Setthawong</author><author>Win Surachetpong</author><author>Tuchakorn Lertwanakarn</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionHumane slaughter practices are increasingly recognized as essential for improving fish welfare and maintaining product quality in aquaculture systems. In tilapia production, inappropriate stunning and killing methods can induce severe stress responses, leading to compromised welfare, accelerated rigor mortis, and reduced fillet quality. Despite the availability of multiple stunning techniques, comparative evidence linking welfare indicators to postmortem biochemical changes and fillet quality remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of six commonly used stunning methods on welfare outcomes and flesh quality in Nile tilapia.Materials and methodsA total of 54 Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were randomly allocated to six slaughter treatments (n = 9 per group): priest stunning, bolt pistol, ikijime, live freezing, anesthetic overdose, and asphyxiation. Fish welfare was assessed immediately post-stunning using behavioral response (BR) scores and morphological damage (MD) indices. Postmortem physiological and biochemical parameters—including muscle pH, lactate concentration, ATP levels, and rigor mortis index—were analyzed over storage time. Fillet quality was evaluated based on texture, color, proximate composition, and water drip loss.ResultsAnesthetic overdose and bolt pistol stunning produced the most favorable welfare and quality outcomes. Both methods resulted in immediate loss of consciousness (BR = 0), minimal morphological damage, and significantly lower muscle lactate concentrations (3.0 ± 0.5 mmol/L) compared with other treatments. Asphyxiation demonstrated the poorest welfare performance, characterized by prolonged behavioral responses (BR = 1), elevated stress biomarkers, rapid rigor mortis onset, and inferior fillet texture, color stability, and storage potential. Live freezing and priest stunning showed relatively acceptable behavioral welfare indicators; however, these methods did not confer advantages in stress reduction or fillet quality parameters. The effectiveness of ikijime varied considerably, largely depending on operator skill and consistency.DiscussionThe findings demonstrate a strong association between rapid induction of unconsciousness, reduced physiological stress, and improved fillet quality in tilapia. Anesthetic overdose and bolt pistol stunning consistently outperformed other methods across welfare, biochemical, and quality metrics, highlighting their suitability as humane slaughter techniques. In contrast, asphyxiation remains unacceptable from both welfare and product quality perspectives. Although some traditional methods may appear behaviorally acceptable, their limited benefits on physiological stress and flesh quality reduce their practical value. Overall, these results support the adoption of anesthetic overdose or bolt pistol stunning in commercial tilapia production. Pilot implementation with industry stakeholders is recommended to facilitate ethical compliance, improve product value, and enhance consumer confidence.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1742178</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1742178</link>
        <title><![CDATA[The effects of post-ovulatory aging on fertilization success, survival, hatching performance and gene expression in Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) eggs]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-20T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Nils Niepagen</author><author>Francesca Bertolini</author><author>Elin Kjørsvik</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionPost-ovulatory aging reduces Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) egg quality, but the practical time window and the stage at which developmental programs fail are not well defined. We quantified performance loss across storage times and mapped when molecular pathways break down during embryogenesis.MethodsEggs from five females were fertilized at t0, t1, t2, t4, t6, and t12 after in vitro storage at 6 °C and reared in a small-scale system. Endpoints were fertilization, normal 8-cell (8C) morphology, normal development at 50dd, survival to hatching, and hatching success. Mixed effects beta regression and Kaplan Meier analyses tested time effects. One batch underwent RNA seq at unfertilized, 8C, blastula (BL), and 50dd egg stages.ResultsFertilization declined from about 82 percent at t0 to about 30 percent at t12. Normal 8C morphology was unchanged to t2, then lower at t6 and t12. Normal 50dd morphology dropped after t4 and was significantly reduced at t6 (p = 0.023) and t12 (p < 0.001). Survival varied among batches but was consistently worst at t12. Transcriptomics pinpointed BL stage as the main failure window: from t4 onward, genes for RNA metabolism and ribosome biogenesis, germ layer and system development, Wnt signaling, and cell migration were down regulated, while maternal pools at unfertilized and 8C were largely unchanged. At 50dd, rRNA biogenesis and mitochondrial organization were up regulated and morphogenesis related terms were suppressed; organizer and patterning genes such as gsc, ved, and vox declined with aging. Advancing stripping time by 10–13 hours relative to fixed hatchery protocols substantially improved egg quality, with fertilization rates of 77–87% and normal 50dd development of 55–96%.DiscussionThe data support an operational window of at most 4 to 6 hours post stripping to preserve competence and establish normal 50dd morphology as a practical quality marker. Mechanistically, post-ovulatory aging acts primarily by stage-specific suppression of programs required for axis formation and organogenesis at BL stage.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1770106</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1770106</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Recent advancements in sustainable aquaculture: innovative techniques and future prospects]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Perspective</category>
        <author>Devarshi Ranjan</author><author>Shashank Singh</author><author>Anil Singh</author><author>Vipin Kumar Misra</author><author>C. P. Singh</author><author>Dinesh Kumar</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Aquaculture is the world’s fastest-growing industry for food production and serves as a key component in meeting the growing need for animal protein and ensuring food and nutritional security. However, its rapid growth has also led to significant sustainability challenges, such as water scarcity, depletion of feed resources, disease outbreaks, and environmental degradation. To address these issues, numerous management techniques and technological advances are currently underway to make aquaculture more sustainable. Among these, biofloc technology (BFT), recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), aquaponics, and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) has emerged as a cost-effective approach for intensive production with low water consumption and effective waste control. With the help of automation, IoT-based sensors, and artificial intelligence, precision aquaculture is transforming real-time monitoring and decision- making, increasing resource efficiency and lowering risks. Disease resistance and enhanced stock performance have also been facilitated by developments in genetics and biotechnology. Furthermore, the discovery of sustainable dietary alternatives reducing dependence on limited marine resources. Global case studies show that adopting these technologies not only increases profitability and production, but also maintains ecological balance. In the future, it is anticipated that aquaculture practices will be redefined to be more resilient and climate-friendly due to the confluence of digital technologies, renewable energy, and circular bioeconomy concepts. The article examines these new developments and highlights how they will help provide aquaculture with a sustainable future. By adopting cutting-edge methods, aquaculture could become a major sector in the future.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2025.1541010</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2025.1541010</link>
        <title><![CDATA[The genetic basis of resistance to complex gill disease in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Andrew C. Preston</author><author>Simon MacKenzie</author><author>Brede Fannemel</author><author>Ben Clokie</author><author>Chessor Matthew</author><author>David Bassett</author><author>Hooman Moghadam</author><author>Ólafur H. Kristjánsson</author><author>Ingunn Thorland</author><author>Sergio Vela-Avitua</author><author>Carlos Lozano</author><author>Ross D. Houston</author><author>Kahsay Nirea</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Complex gill disease (CGD) of farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) is currently one of the most significant health problems in the global salmon industry. To understand the genetic basis of CGD and investigate the potential of breeding for improved robustness, an experimental CGD challenge test was conducted using a pedigreed population from an Icelandic breeding program. A population consisting of 3120 individuals representing 195 families were subjected to two sequential CGD infections, designed to replicate pathogenic exposure scenarios encountered in commercial Atlantic salmon net pen environments. A standardized 4-hour therapeutic freshwater immersion was administered between challenges to simulate routine mitigation strategies employed in industry to ameliorate disease severity. The animals were then phenotyped to identify severity of gill disease and all survivors of the second CGD challenge test (N = 1,946) were recorded for body weight, gill score (16 gills sides) and were genotyped using a 67K SNP array. In total, 1663 fish successfully passed quality control and underwent parentage analysis, had phenotypic records and were available for further analysis. Genomic analysis indicated that gill severity to CGD infection is influenced by genetic factors, with moderate heritability (h2) ranging from 0.16 to 0.26. Genome wide analysis identified specific genomic regions on chromosomes 9, 16, and 24 that are tentatively associated with gill damage from CGD. These tentative associations show little evidence for any major quantitative trait loci (QTL), indicating numerous small effect genes determining gill severity to CGD infection, implying that genomic selection may be a valuable approach in a breeding program. Cross-validation results indicate high accuracy (0.74) of prediction of genomic breeding values supporting the use of genomic selection for improving resistance. Breeding for CGD resistance can be effective irrespective of the gill region targeted for phenotyping (left or right), as the trait remains consistent across the gill. Reducing phenotyping to the right or left gill region only can increase efficiencies by minimizing the number of phenotypes while reducing labor and resource costs. Therefore, selective breeding augmented by genomics represent a viable approach to improve gill damage to CGD in a farmed Atlantic salmon.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1771129</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1771129</link>
        <title><![CDATA[A review of the environmental and health impact of biotechnology applications in sustainable aquaculture and fish health management]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Akinloye Emmanuel Ojewole</author><author>Omolola Badmus</author><author>Prince Emeka Ndimele</author><author>Adekunle Stephen Toromade</author><author>Olufemi Stephen Akande</author><author>Catherine Oluwalopeye Ojewole</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Aquaculture provides over half of global aquatic animal production for human consumption and is vital to food security, yet intensification increases disease susceptibility, causing significant losses annually. This study examines biotechnology applications for sustainable aquaculture and fish health, evaluating their performance and implications. It also discusses disease drivers in aquaculture, pathogen groups (bacterial, viral, parasitic, fungal), alongside control measures. Advances include probiotics, vaccines, phage therapy, molecular diagnostics, selective breeding, and emerging tools like nanotherapeutics and CRISPR/Cas9. Probiotics and vaccines can reduce antibiotic use and improve resistance, but outcomes depend on strain, host, dose, and environment, limited by standardization and safety concerns. Antibiotic use remains widespread, contributing to antimicrobial resistance and food safety risks, including severe toxicities. Genetic interventions enhance disease resistance but face pathogen-specific limitations and ecological risks. Responsible implementation requires improved stewardship, wastewater treatment, containment strategies, harmonized governance, and ethical frameworks integrating precision aquaculture to achieve sustainable production while protecting ecosystems and public health.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1740206</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1740206</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Dietary Wedelia chinensis extract enhances growth performance and strengthens innate immunity of whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) against Vibrio parahaemolyticus]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-09T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Tran Nguyen Ngoc</author><author>Kartik Baruah</author><author>Nguyen Quang Linh</author><author>Nguyen Duc Quynh Anh</author><author>Nguyen Thi Xuan Hong</author><author>Nguyen Xuan Huy</author><author>Parisa Norouzitallab</author><author>Nguyen Ngoc Phuoc</author>
        <description><![CDATA[This study evaluated the effects of dietary top-coating supplementation with Wedelia chinensis extract on growth performance, innate immune responses, and disease resistance in whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) challenged with Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Shrimp were fed a basal diet top-coated with W. chinensis extract at inclusion levels of 31.25, 312.5, or 625 mg kg-1 feed using an intermittent feeding protocol over a 21-day period, while a control group received the unsupplemented basal diet. Growth performance indicators, including weight gain and feed conversion ratio, were significantly improved in shrimp fed extract-supplemented diets, with the most pronounced effects observed at the intermediate inclusion level. In addition, many key innate immune parameters, including total hemocyte count, phagocytic activity, phenoloxidase, lysozyme, and superoxide dismutase activities, were significantly elevated compared with the control group. Following pathogen challenge, shrimp fed W. chinensis–supplemented diets exhibited significantly reduced mortality, indicating enhanced resistance to V. parahaemolyticus. Overall, the results suggest that dietary supplementation with W. chinensis extract can beneficially modulate growth performance and innate immune responses in whiteleg shrimp. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, identify active compounds, and evaluate long-term efficacy under commercial farming conditions.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1710076</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1710076</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Linking knowledge, attitudes, and practices to disease dynamics in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) aquaculture on Volta Lake]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-06T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Doris Y. Baah</author><author>Regina Edziyie</author><author>Amr A.A. Gamil</author><author>Kwasi Adu Obirikorang</author><author>Øystein Evensen</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionTilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) aquaculture accounts for nearly 80% of Ghana’s farmed fish production, with cage culture on Volta Lake as the dominant system. In recent years, production has been severely constrained by high disease-related mortalities, notably due to Streptococcus agalactiae and Infectious Spleen and Kidney Necrosis Virus (ISKNV). This study investigated how farm management practices and farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions influence disease dynamics on Volta Lake.MethodsA cross-sectional survey of 56 farms across five districts was conducted using semi-structured questionnaires and interviews with farmers and the local fish health officer. Results showed that disease outbreaks were reported in all farms, with mortalities ranging from 10-80%.ResultsFarmers attributed outbreaks primarily to pathogens, but also to poor water quality, high stocking densities, and inadequate biosecurity. Diagnostic practices varied, with most farmers relying on clinical signs or peer consultation rather than laboratory testing. Clinical signs commonly reported included exophthalmia, swollen abdomens, and skin lesions. Farm management practices such as grading, sourcing of fingerlings, water quality monitoring, and biosecurity were inconsistent and largely unstandardized. Regression analysis indicated that stocking density, biosecurity, and water quality monitoring did not significantly predict disease-related mortality, underscoring the multifactorial nature of outbreaks in this open water system.DiscussionThe findings highlight the need for coordinated extension services, accessible diagnostic facilities, and standardized farm management protocols to strengthen disease prevention and control in Ghana’s cage aquaculture sector.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1761112</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1761112</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Sargassum biomass as a nutrient source for Kluyveromyces marxianus: effects of hydrothermal treatment and fermentation on antioxidant activity]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Brief Research Report</category>
        <author>Iván G. Delgado-Cortez</author><author>Elda M. Melchor-Martínez</author><author>Geraldine Badillo-Contreras</author><author>Ángel F. Gómez-Cavazos</author><author>Everardo González-González</author><author>Elda A. Flores-Contreras</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Since 2011, the coasts of Mexico have experienced massive Sargassum invasions, resulting in substantial economic losses in tourism and fisheries. Circular economy approaches provide an opportunity to valorize this abundant biomass by extracting bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical, food, and feed applications. In this study, Sargassum collected in Cancún was subjected to hydrothermal treatment at 100–200°C, producing carbohydrate rich solid and aqueous fractions. These fractions were subsequently fermented with Kluyveromyces marxianus to evaluate their antioxidant potential. Fermentation conducted over 24–72 h showed that the aqueous fraction fermented for 48 h exhibited the highest radical scavenging activity (~26%), significantly exceeding that of the control (~11%). The results indicate that hydrothermally pretreated Sargassum is a promising substrate for K. marxianus, capable of generating bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. Importantly, this study is the first to report the use of Sargassum as a substrate for K. marxianus. These findings suggest potential applications for incorporating fermented Sargassum into livestock and aquaculture diets to enhance animal health and growth, while indirectly improving the nutritional quality and safety of animal derived products for human consumption.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1730913</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2026.1730913</link>
        <title><![CDATA[From genome to phenome: omics perspectives on fish reproduction]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-03T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Malik Wasim Mushtaq</author><author>Mohd Ashraf Rather</author><author>Irfan Ahmad Khan</author><author>Hussna Bhat</author><author>Ishfaq Nazir Mir</author><author>Irfan Ahmad Bhat</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Fish reproduction, a complex biological process, is regulated by diverse molecular, biochemical, and physiological mechanisms. Advances in omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and phenomics, have provided every possible way to understand the underlying pathways of reproductive development in fish. In contrast to conventional approaches, omics technologies give us a detailed, molecule-by-molecule view of how an organism’s energy, hormones, and metabolism change during its most important reproductive phases. Metabolomics and lipidomic studies in fish have revealed the importance of lipid and amino acid metabolism during embryogenesis and ovarian development, while transcriptomics and proteomics helped to identify key genes and proteins involved in steroidogenic pathway and reproductive development. Nutritional omics on the other hand highlights the role of essential fatty acids, in enhancing overall reproductive performance, so the offspring quality. Moreover, omics is transforming genetic conservation by providing a new toolkit to optimize the freezing process and ensure the long-term survival of genetic resources, securing a future for endangered fish germplasm. Together, these strategies do more than optimize aquaculture like, fortify conservation efforts, build sustainable and resilient futures for fish populations worldwide.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2025.1647026</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2025.1647026</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Modeling dynamics of adult female lice at salmon farming sites in Eastern Canada: a stochastic, state-based approach]]></title>
        <pubdate>2025-10-08T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Francisco Bravo</author><author>Mariana Oliveira</author><author>Marianne I. Parent</author><author>Jennie Korus</author><author>Tyler Sclodnick</author><author>Ian Gardner</author><author>Christopher Whidden</author><author>Ramón Filgueira</author><author>K. Larry Hammell</author><author>Andrew K. Swanson</author><author>Luís Torgo</author><author>Jon Grant</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionSea lice are parasitic copepods that harm salmon health, reduce farm productivity, and create ecological and economic challenges for aquaculture.MethodsA stochastic, state-based, time-dependent epidemiological model was developed to characterize the dynamics of adult female sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) infestation in Atlantic salmon farms in New Brunswick, Canada. The model integrated covariates associated with farming practices and environmental conditions (stocking week, farming cycle week as proxy of fish age, sea lice treatments, seaway distance to neighboring farms as a proxy for waterborne transmission, and sea surface temperature). Data from 57 farming sites were used for model training and validation. An initial exploratory analysis assessed the relationship between treatment timing and recovery from infestation. Treatment effects were incorporated into weekly transitions between infestation states, accounting for severity and time-varying environmental factors.ResultsResults suggest that spring and summer stocking increases exposure to external infestation pressure and raises the probability of high lice concentrations. Further, reduced winter treatments are associated with elevated infestation levels. Treatment effectiveness appeared to be compromised by continued waterborne transmission from nearby farms.DiscussionThe model achieved an overall likelihood of 59%, reaching up to 74% during the first 10 weeks following stocking. Limitations included the use of proxy connectivity measures, i.e. seaway distance, rather than hydrodynamic connectivity, and the absence of data on fish size, salinity, and other farming practices such as fish density. Additionally, we were unable to include information from all farms in the study area, potentially underestimating transmission risk. Addressing these gaps and integrating hydrodynamic connectivity and fish growth models could improve predictive performance.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2025.1665877</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/faquc.2025.1665877</link>
        <title><![CDATA[In vitro antibacterial activity of essential oils from medicinal plants against major fish pathogens in Mediterranean aquaculture]]></title>
        <pubdate>2025-10-07T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Brief Research Report</category>
        <author>Markos N. Kolygas</author><author>Vasiliki Kostou</author><author>Ioannis S. Pappas</author><author>Evdokia Karagouni</author><author>Dimitra K. Toubanaki</author><author>Vasileios Bakopoulos</author><author>Yannis P. Kotzamanis</author><author>Cosmas Nathanailides</author><author>Fotini Athanassopoulou</author>
        <description><![CDATA[A rise of intensive Mediterranean aquaculture has been associated with vulnerability to bacterial infections, necessitating alternative approaches to conventional antibiotics. This study evaluated the antibacterial and bactericidal activity of essential oils derived from fifteen medicinal plants against four key bacterial pathogens affecting Mediterranean marine aquaculture: Aeromonas veronii biovar veronii, Aeromonas veronii biovar sobria, Vibrio harveyi, and Tenacibaculum maritimum. Essential oils were screened using disc diffusion assays, and the most effective oils—thyme, oregano, cinnamon, and absinthe—underwent further evaluation through broth microdilution methods. Results demonstrated that these four oils exhibited notable inhibitory and bactericidal effects, with thyme and oregano showing the strongest overall activity across multiple pathogens. Notably, this is among the first studies to document the in vitro efficacy of essential oils against Tenacibaculum maritimum, a major pathogen with limited treatment options. The findings support the potential use of selected essential oils as sustainable and natural antibacterial agents in fish health management, contributing to reduced reliance on antibiotics in aquaculture.]]></description>
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