Probiotics in fish food

Probiotics are as common today as vitamins. They are used during antibiotic therapy, for digestive disorders, and to support a weakened immune system. So why not use probiotic food for aquarium fish?

What is a probiotic?

The current definition describes a probiotic as a live microorganism that, when administered in the right amounts, provides health benefits. However, in the case of fish, this definition should be expanded. The microorganisms found in a fish’s digestive tract are the same as those present in their environment or food. In an aquatic setting, the host and microorganisms share an ecosystem. For fish, these microorganisms can “choose” whether to reside in the digestive tract, on the skin, in the gills, or simply in the surrounding water. Therefore, a more precise definition for aquatic animals would be: A probiotic is a living microorganism that, when administered in adequate amounts, benefits health by modifying both the host’s bacterial flora and the surrounding environment.

Probiotic organisms

Many microorganisms are known for their probiotic properties, including both bacteria and fungi. It is important to note that health benefits are linked to specific strains rather than just the species. A different strain of the same species may not have the same effect. Strains are designated with numbers that follow the species name, such as Lactobacillus casei DN 11400.

Which probiotic fish food should I choose?

Tropical Pro Defence is an excellent probiotic fish food formulated with Bacillus velezensis DSM 15544. This strain was previously classified under a different name—Bacillus subtilis C-3102—but recent genetic research led to its reclassification.

Tropical Pro Defence is available in flake form, as well as S and XXS granules and powder. This variety allows the introduction of probiotics into the diet of fish of different sizes. Since Tropical Pro Defence Micro Size comes in powder form, it can be used to feed fry, enabling probiotic supplementation from the earliest stages of development. This makes it ideal for both professional and amateur fish breeders, promoting faster growth while simultaneously strengthening immunity.

The Tropical Pro Defence formula contains not only probiotics but also beta-glucan, vitamins, and carotenoids. These ingredients work together to significantly improve fish health and enhance immune function.

For marine fish, Tropical Marine Power Probiotic Soft Formula is an excellent option. This soft pellet food, available in S, M, and L sizes, is rich in algae and crustaceans. Its balanced composition, soft texture, and probiotic content make it an outstanding choice for marine fish. Additionally, it can also be used for particularly demanding freshwater species without any contraindications.

Benefits of probiotics for fish

Feeding fish with probiotic food enhances their nutrition by promoting the synthesis of essential compounds such as vitamins, short-chain fatty acids, and digestive enzymes (e.g., amylases and proteases). Probiotic bacteria also help break down food components that would otherwise remain indigestible.

Furthermore, probiotics increase resistance to infections, they eliminate harmful bacteria and neutralizing the toxic substances they produce, which can inhibit growth. They also positively influence reproduction, offspring quality, and survival rates.

How to use probiotic fish food

Probiotic fish food helps shape intestinal microflora composition. However, it should be noted that probiotics work best when fed to fish with a mature intestinal microflora. It takes time for these beneficial bacteria to colonize the intestines and reach a level where their effects become noticeable.

To achieve optimal results, Tropical Pro Defence or Marine Power Probiotic Soft Formula should be used regularly for at least 3-4 weeks initially. After this period, they can be integrated into the regular feeding routine to maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria.

If you want to learn more read How do probiotic in fish food work?

Aleksandra Kwaśniak-Płacheta (Ph.D.Eng)

Literature:

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Ghosh S., Sinha A., Sahu C. (2008) Dietary probiotic supplementation in growth and health of live-bearing ornamental fishes. Aquaculture Nutrition, 14, 289-299.

He at al. (2011) Evaluation of probiotic strain Bacillus subtilis C-3102 as a feed supplement for koi carp (Cyprinus carpio), Aquaculture Research & Development, January.

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Telli G. i inni. (2014) Dietary administration of Bacillus subtilis on hematology and non-specific immunity of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus raised at different stocking densities. Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 39, 305-311.lopment of ovaries and testicles.