Importance of Minerals in Aquaculture

Minerals play a crucial role in the health, growth, and overall productivity of aquatic organisms in aquaculture. They are essential for various physiological and biochemical functions, including bone formation, osmoregulation, enzyme activation and immune response. Macro-minerals like calcium, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium are vital for skeletal development, muscle contraction and maintaining osmotic balance. Trace minerals such as zinc, selenium and iron are indispensable for enzyme activity, antioxidant defense and haemoglobin synthesis. Inadequate mineral supplementation in aquaculture diets can lead to growth retardation, deformities, and increased susceptibility to diseases, affecting the sustainability and profitability of aquaculture operations. The mineral requirements of aquatic species vary depending on factors like species, life stage and water quality parameters, including salinity and pH. Understanding and optimizing mineral nutrition, through feed formulation and water mineral management, is critical to enhancing production efficiency, environmental sustainability, and the welfare of cultured species (Abrosimova et al. 2020).