BENEFITS OF PHOSPHOLIPIDS IN AQUAFEED DEVELOPMENT: A REVIEW

Fish oil (FO) is the main source of lipids in aquafeed, but its use has become very unsustainable due to over-exploitation, scarcity and high cost. Plant oil has been proposed as an alternative to FO, but they are less digestible and not rich in fatty acids. In addition, larval and juvenile fish are unable to synthesise sufficient phospholipids (PLs) for their metabolic need. Hence, the necessity to supplement PLs in their diets. This review describes the application and beneficial impact of dietary PLs in aquafeed. PLs are an essential component of aquafeed as they supply energy for metabolic activities and enhance digestion and absorption of other dietary lipids. Plantbased PLs such as soy lecithin serve as an emulsifier that helps lipid catabolism by facilitating enzymatic hydrolysis in the fish’s digestive system, besides improving nutrient absorption, growth and health. Studies on farm animals have confirmed the positive effects of PLs. Although the literature on aquafeed application is limited, to growth and health of farmed fish and crustaceans. The use of PLs in aquaculture is set to increase as both feed producers and farmers seek to maximise production through efficient feed utilisation and ensure sustainability in delivering quality fish to consumers.