Histidine as a key nutrient for enhancing reproductive performance and larval survival in marine fish: a mechanistic review

The early larval stage in marine fish is characterized by high mortality rates, principally due to heightened sensitivity to environmental and nutritional factors that impair adaptive capacity. Broodstock nutritional condition stands as a pivotal factor influencing larval survival, with histidine identified as a key nutrient that substantially enhances reproductive performance in marine species. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the mechanisms by which dietary histidine improves reproductive outcomes and offspring viability. Histidine plays a dynamic and multifunctional role throughout reproduction. Initially, it facilitates the mobilization of muscle reserves to meet increased metabolic demands, supporting energy production, pH regulation, and antioxidant defense during gonadal development. As maturation progresses, histidine actively contributes to ovarian maturation by participating in vitellogenin synthesis and osmolyte regulation for oocyte hydration, while providing antioxidant protection against oxidative stress during gametogenesis. In males, histidine enhances sperm motility and function through its dual role as an energy substrate and antioxidant. Although evidence suggests histidine content in eggs influences embryonic viability, further research is needed to elucidate these mechanisms. Dietary histidine supplementation in broodstock has been shown to significantly improve fertility, gonadal quality, and larval survival, underscoring its potential as a functional aquafeed additive. Juvenile studies further demonstrate histidine’s beneficial effects on health and stress resilience at appropriate inclusion levels. These findings collectively highlight histidine as a strategic dietary component that supports the reproductive continuum from muscle reserve mobilization to embryonic development, ultimately enhancing reproductive success and sustainability in marine fish aquaculture.