The Impact of Hormonal Utilization in Aquaculture on Growth and Reproduction: A Review

Abstract

Aquaculture, the farming of fish and other aquatic organisms for food, is one of the world's most rapidly expanding food-production sectors and provides substantial economic benefits at national and regional levels. India is a major contributor to global fisheries and aquaculture production. Growing demand for seafood and increased per-capita fish consumption have accelerated the expansion of aquaculture. Hormones are central to the regulation of fish growth, development, reproduction, and metabolism. Somatotropin, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), thyroid hormones, steroids, prostaglandins, gonadotropins, and GnRH analogues are used to enhance production, regulate development, and induce maturation and spawning. Hypophysation and other induced-breeding methods rely on natural or synthetic hormonal preparations to improve reproductive success. These techniques have increased the efficiency and profitability of fish farming. Nevertheless, hormone use in aquaculture raises concerns regarding food safety, human health, and environmental effects. Excessive use or improper disposal may introduce hormonal residues into aquatic ecosystems and water supplies, potentially affecting fish fertility, sex ratios, and endocrine function. Residues in farmed fish may also create concerns for consumers. Therefore, although hormonal applications can improve growth and reproductive management, their use requires careful dosing, monitoring, and responsible disposal. Aquaculture development should balance production requirements with the protection of environmental and public health by promoting safer, controlled, and more sustainable hormonal practices.