Exogenous enzymes as functional additives in finfish aquaculture

Exogenous enzymes, including protease, lipase, carbohydrate enzyme and phytase, are widely used as additives in fish feed worldwide. The chemical effects of these enzymes are well understood; however, their benefits to fish remain controversial. This review aimed to explore the current state of knowledge on the impacts of exogenous enzymes on finfish aquaculture, and demonstrate the application of exogenous enzymes as a safe and efficient bio-additive to regulate growth performance, digestibility, feed utilization, whole-body composition and immune performance of fish, and reduce phosphorus pollution into environment. Overall, based on the current knowledge and information gathered in this review, it is clear that the research on exogenous enzyme supplementation in finfish aquaculture is not extensive. It may be significant to increase research on this subject in future because it could broaden the application of exogenous enzyme use in diets where they cannot be applied currently.