Effects of Nannochloropsis oculata and Thalassiosira pseudonana monocultures on growth performance and nutrient composition of Litopenaeus vannamei

Different microalgae affect shrimp yield in culture tanks. To select suitable microalgae for shrimp culture and supplement the limited information in this field, we screened two microalgae species (Nannochloropsis oculata and Thalassiosira pseudonana) that are easily cultured and maintain steady quantities in water. A 12-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of N. oculata (NG) and T. pseudonana (TG) monocultures on the growth (survival and yield) and biochemical composition (nutritional composition and mineral elements) of Litopenaeus vannamei. The results showed that shrimp survival and yield were significantly higher under TG than under NG or no microalgae conditions (CG) (P < 0.05). Biochemical components, such as crude proteins, essential amino acids, and some mineral elements (Mg, Ca, Se, and Cu) were significantly higher, and lipid content was significantly lower in NG and TG than in CG (P < 0.05). Furthermore, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were significantly higher in TG than in CG and NG (P < 0.05). In summary, T. pseudonana and N. oculata monocultures in culture tanks increase shrimp yield and improve muscle nutritional quality, with the effect of T. pseudonana particularly significant. This is a more effective strategy for an ecologically friendly and healthy shrimp cultivation model.

Automated summary

The study suggests that the monocultures of Thalassiosira pseudonana and Nannochloropsis oculata can increase shrimp yield and improve the nutritional quality of shrimp muscles, with the effect of Thalassiosira pseudonana being particularly significant.