The role of vitamins in fish farming: growth performance, immunity, disease resistance, and body composition.

Aquaculture is a crucial sector in the global food system, significantly contributing to the supply of nutritious food and creating economic opportunities. This review article examines the essential role of vitamins in fish farming, highlighting their contributions to growth performance, immune function, antioxidant activity, digestive efficiency, disease resistance, and overall body composition. Vitamins are not only vital nutrients for the growth and metabolic functions of aquatic organisms but also serve as essential cofactors in numerous biochemical reactions, thereby promoting fish health and development. Recent innovations in aquafeed formulations and vitamin nutrition have led to a reassessment of the dietary vitamin needs for various farmed fish species. This review synthesizes contemporary research in fish nutrition, demonstrating the substantial effects of vitamins on growth rates (up to 20%), immune response enhancement (up to 40%), optimization of digestive and hepatic enzyme activities, and improvement of biochemical and hematological parameters. The magnitude of these benefits is influenced by factors such as vitamin type, fish species, age, and environmental conditions. Additionally, the review highlights the significance of vitamins in enhancing disease resistance and improving body composition in aquaculture species. The insights provided aim to guide aquaculture professionals and researchers in recognizing the critical role of vitamins in fostering sustainable fish farming practices. Future research in fish nutrition should prioritize the development of sustainable vitamin supplementation strategies, including the exploration of plant-based and microbial vitamin sources, the optimization of nutrient delivery methods, and the reduction of environmental impacts. By focusing on these areas, we can enhance fish health, improve feed efficiency, and promote more environmentally sustainable aquaculture practices.