Application of Spirulina spp. as Fish Feed: A Minireview with Future Perspectives on Human Nutrition

Abstract

The fast rise of the world's population, as well as the rising need for high-quality protein sources, have exacerbated food security and sustainability issues. Aquaculture is critical to addressing global protein needs; yet, the high cost and scarcity of fish meal necessitate other, sustainable protein sources. Spirulina spp. (also known as Arthrospira platensis and A. maxima) are filamentous cyanobacteria known for their high nutritional content, which includes 55-70% protein, essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, pigments, and a variety of bioactive chemicals. This minireview covers recent research on the biochemical makeup of Spirulina spp. and assesses its potential use as a functional ingredient in aquaculture feed, while discussing its potential role in human nutrition as a future direction. Aquaculture studies show that dietary inclusion of Spirulina can partially replace fish meal without affecting growth, survival, or feed efficiency, while also improving pigmentation, immune responses, gut health, and reproductive performance in various fish species. In human nutrition, Spirulina contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, hypolipidemic, and anti-anemic characteristics, and it has been successfully incorporated into a variety of foods. Overall, Spirulina spp. are a promising, sustainable, and multifunctional resource for increasing aquaculture productivity and human nutritional health.