Investigation of the effects of heavy metals (copper, cobalt, manganese, selenium, and zinc) on fish immune systems: an overview

Abstract

Aquaculture, as a strategic and developmental industry, plays an important role in ensuring food security and economic stability within countries. This crucial sector faces various influences, including infectious and nutritional diseases. Certain minerals function as essential nutrients, playing a main role in processes across all aquatic animals when present in appropriate dietary proportions. Studies showed that some heavy metals serve as a catalyst for various biological functions, including the maintenance of colloidal systems, acid-base balance, bone formation, and the regulation of fundamental natural elements such as vitamins, hormones, and minerals. Fish acquire essential elements crucial for their well-being through both diet and water sources. Adequate levels of essential elements, such as iron, zinc, copper, cobalt, manganese, and selenium, in the diet contribute to enhanced growth, increased survival rates, improved disease resistance, and heightened specific immunity in fish. When incorporated in appropriate quantities, these elements play a pivotal role in disease prevention, fostering the production of high-quality fish, minimizing economic losses, and solidifying aquaculture as a robust and profitable industry. This article aims to delve into the immunological effects induced by metal elements, specifically copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se), in diverse fish species. The objective is to underscore the significance of this exploration, paving the way for the development of more potent immune supplements in the future. These supplements have the potential to improve growth, fortify immune responses, and enhance resilience against diseases in various fish species.