Future considerations in fish nutrition research

Abstract

Considerable progress has been made In the field of fish nutrition during the past two decades. Nutritional data for some species such as trout, salmon, channel catfish, and common carp are well established and efficient feeds have been developed. However, nutrition of fish species commercially Important In the Southeast Asian region is still in its infancy and much of the existing Information needs further verification. Basic requirements for some of the 5 major nutrient classes and energy have been determined. However, knowledge of larval and broodstock nutrition is limited. The role of nutrition in immune function and disease resistance should be investigated. Nutritional value and nutrient bioavailability of local feedstuffs as well as methods for improving the nutritional quality of inferior feedstuffs should be given priority. The potential benefits of additives, and harmful effects of toxicants and anti-nutritional factors need to be assessed. The effects of the diet on product quality are becoming increasingly important, but work on feed processing technology in relation to the physical and nutritional quality of feeds is lacking. Emphasis must also be given to the improvement of feed performance and feeding strategies for various life stages under different production systems and management practices in order to reduce production costs and minimize the negative impact of feeds on the environment.