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HAVBRUKS-Havbruk - en næring i vekst

Improved production efficiency and animal welfare in aquaculture through elevated dietary tryptophan (TRP) levels

Awarded: NOK 1.5 mill.

The aim of this proposal is to develop a cost effective method for using TRP supplemented feed to enhance production efficiency and welfare of fish in aquaculture. TRP, a naturally occurring amino acid and precursor of serotonin, has been shown to reduce stress responsiveness in all vertebrates. This effect has a wide variety of implications as elevated levels of TRP have proven to increase appetite after stressful situations as well as reducing aggression. Moreover, TRP also contributes to increased circ ulating levels of melatonin. In addition to reducing aggression, melatonin affects sexual maturation and seasonal cycles in growth and fat deposition. We will investigate different sources of TRP and evaluate which combinations are most effective, and eva luate which concentrations and feeding regimes with TRP are needed to have an optimal effect on stress responsiveness. This feeding regime will then be tested to assess the effects on aggression, hierarchy structures, transportation stress, appetite, immu ne response, functional biorhythms and nutrient utilisation patterns. Although indirectly affected by TRP, these are factors that all may contribute to improved production efficiency and welfare in farmed fish.

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HAVBRUKS-Havbruk - en næring i vekst