Effects of Heterologous Protein Substitutions of Fishmeal on the Culture of the Chinese Soft‐Shelled Turtle ( <i>Pelodiscus sinensis</i> ): A Review and Meta‐Analysis

With the global aquaculture industry growing rapidly, fishmeal (FM) occupies an important position in aquatic animal nutrition as a traditional feed ingredient, but its production is facing rising costs and sustainability challenges, making the search for high‐quality heterologous proteins particularly essential. The effects of different protein substitutes for FM in the diets of Chinese soft‐shelled turtles ( Pelodiscus sinensis ) have been evaluated through a review and meta‐analysis, focusing on their impact on the growth performance, immune response, and health status of the turtles. This meta‐analysis evaluates the effects of heterologous protein substitutions for FM in the diet of Chinese soft‐shelled turtles ( Pelodiscus sinensis ). A total of 10 studies with 37 independent datasets were included, revealing that FM significantly outperforms all alternatives in promoting weight gain (β = 12.18, 95% CI [7.77, 16.58], p &lt; 0.001). Despite the nutritional potential of heterologous proteins, a dose–response reversal phenomenon was observed at higher inclusion levels. These findings underscore the importance of optimizing protein substitution ratios for sustainable aquaculture practices.