Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA): enhancing growth, production, immunological responses, and environmental management in aquaculture

Abstract

Aquaculture is a rapidly expanding industry globally, significantly being intensified to meet the nutrition of the increasing world population; the intensive aquaculture is accompanied by environmental pollution marked by elevated levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. To increase production and diversify cultured species, along with mitigating the environmental impacts of aquaculture and promoting long-term ecological balance, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) is a farming method that entails the simultaneous cultivation of several organisms, highlighting the reutilization of by-products from one species as inputs for another. IMTA systems are generally economically more effective than mono- and polyculture farming, as they improve animal growth and water quality, hence influencing all aspects of aquaculture. The present review assesses the effect of the IMTA system on growth, immunological response, and water quality characteristics that collectively influence the production and economic viability of IMTA. The analysis of the present study clearly indicated that the IMTA system significantly improved the growth, production, feed utilization, and economic performance, as well as the immune response of cultured species inside the system. The review also indicated that nitrogenous and phosphorus wastes were significantly diminished in the IMTA system, with enhancements in other water quality parameters. The findings underscore the significance of IMTA as a sustainable substitute for conventional aquaculture through the provision of economic and environmental advantages while fostering adaptability in aquaculture system.