Boosting Growth, Muscle Development, and Intestinal Morphology in Gangetic Mystus (Mystus cavasius) With Dietary Synbiotics

Abstract

This study examined the impact of dietary synbiotics on the growth performance, muscle proliferation, and intestinal histomorphology of Gangetic mystus (Mystus cavasius). Synbiotics, which combine probiotics and prebiotics, are thought to enhance fish health by improving a balanced gut microbiota. Four experimental diets were prepared with different concentrations of synbiotics (0%, 4%, 6%, and 8%) and fed to this fish over a 45-day period. Growth performance of the fish significantly improved as the level of synbiotics in their diet increased. Key metrics like final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate (SGR), and food conversion ratio all showed improvement. The diet containing 8% synbiotics resulted in the highest growth rates. A second-order polynomial regression of SGR revealed that the optimal growth occurred when the diet included ~8% of synbiotics. Histological analysis revealed that the 8% synbiotic diet led to the greatest increases in villi length, villi width, and goblet cell numbers, indicating enhanced gut health and nutrient absorption. Liver histology showed improved hepatocyte health, while muscle tissue analysis demonstrated higher muscle cell counts with higher synbiotic inclusion. These findings suggest that dietary synbiotics can effectively boost growth performance, intestinal structure, and tissue development in Gangetic mystus, offering potential benefits for aquaculture practices. Future research should explore the long-term effects and applicability of synbiotics across various fish species and environmental conditions.