Harnessing the potential of thraustochytrids as lipid sources in aquafeeds: a comprehensive review of benefits and challenges

Gora, Adnan Hussain and Kiron, Viswanath and Rehman, Saima and Ebeneezar, Sanal and Chandrasekar, S and Linga Prabu, D and Ain, Qurat ul and Martin Xavier, K A and Chakraborty, Kajal (2025) Harnessing the potential of thraustochytrids as lipid sources in aquafeeds: a comprehensive review of benefits and challenges. Bioresource Technology Reports, 32. pp. 1-15. ISSN 2589-014X

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Abstract

Aquaculture plays an increasingly vital role in global nutritional security, with production having tripled in recent decades. However, the industry faces a key challenge: the limited and unsustainable supply of fish oil, a critical source of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids—particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—essential for growth, immunity, and reproduction in marine fish. The need for sustainable lipid alternatives has never been more urgent. Thraustochytrids, marine eukaryotic microbes known for their high lipid content, especially DHA, have emerged as promising candidates for replacing fish oil in aquafeeds. Research indicates their efficacy in enriching live feeds, enhancing DHA deposition in tissues, and improving immune responses and disease resistance in marine fish and crustaceans. Their lipids are also highly digestible and biochemically suitable for aquaculture. Despite these benefits, practical challenges—such as high production costs and relatively low EPA con tent—limit their broader adoption. This review critically examines the potential of thraustochytrids as sustain able lipid sources in aquafeeds, highlighting both nutritional advantages and existing bottlenecks. We also discuss strategies to enhance their commercial viability and outline future directions for research and devel opment in sustainable aquafeed innovation.

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