Effects of Prebiotic Mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) on Histology and Biochemical Blood Parameters of Gilthead Seabream, Sparus aurata

Abstract

A 90-day growth trial was conducted to determine the effects of prebiotic mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) on the histology and biochemical blood parameters of the gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata). Two experimental diets were formulated to contain MOS (Bio-Mos (R)) levels of 0 and 2 g/kg. The fish averaging 172.11 +/- 13.19 g were reared in six octagonal net cages (763 m(3)). Fish were fed twice daily to apparent satiation. Individual body weight, weight gain, survival rate and feed conversion rate FCR were measured during the experiment. The treatments produced significant differences in body weight. and weight. gain (p<0.050) but no significant effect on the survival rates and FCR (P>0.05). At the end of the experimental period, biochemical blood parameters were analyzed. Blood urea level was significantly affected in the MOS group (P<0.05). No remarkable alterations in histological examinations were found. This study highlighted the positive effects of prebiotic MOS on protein efficiency and weight gain of gilthead seabream.