SPECIAL STORY 70 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE November 2023 “The predominant sources of prebiotics are non-digestible carbohydrate fractions. Commercially available examples include β-glucans; oligosaccharides derived from galactose, fructose or mannose; organic acids; inulin; fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS); and many others, some of which are combinations of these elements. In this article, our primary focus will be on understanding the mode of action associated with prebiotics and the impact of the specific pre-biotic mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) on the immune and digestive system. PREBIOTICS: A PATHWAY TO ACHIEVING OPTIMAL FISH HEALTH Xander de Boer Technical Sales Support Alltech Coppens Prebiotics are primarily known for their role in stimulating beneficial gut bacteria; however, this extensive group of compounds can serve a multitude of functions. • They enhance the protective mucus barriers of the skin, gills and gut. • They improve gut integrity, digestion, nutrient uptake and immune function, and they help to bind and remove external pathogenic bacteria from the gut, protecting the fish’s health. • Consequently, they facilitate the cultivation of a diverse and healthy composition of gut bacteria, commonly known as a healthy microbiome. Considering these benefits, the use of prebiotics aligns with a holistic approach to enhancing overall fish health and growth, reducing the need for antibiotics, and use of vaccinations. The predominant sources of prebiotics are non-digestible carbohydrate fractions. Commercially available examples include β-glucans; oligosaccharides derived from galactose, fructose or mannose; organic acids; inulin; fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS); and many others, some of which are combinations of these elements. In this article, our primary focus will be on understanding the mode of action associated with prebiotics and the impact they have on the immune and digestive systems. More specifically, we’ll focus on mannan oligosaccharide (MOS), since it has been studied extensively across different fish species. This compound has demonstrated its efficacy under practical conditions on fish farms, displaying support for both fish growth and overall health across varying environmental contexts. THREE LINES OF DEFENCE PROTECTING FISH HEALTH The immune system consists of an extensive network of diverse cells and tissues which work together to protect the vital functions of the body from external pathogens. These potential threats primarily include bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. They cause infections in an attempt to establish themselves within the host. The risk is heightened in
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