Broodstock and seed production in biofloc technology (BFT): An updated review focused on fish and penaeid shrimp

Among aquaculture rearing systems, Biofloc Technology (BFT) has great potential for ecological intensification as it produces natural food sources for selected aquatic species by cycling nutrients in a balanced food chain and through complex biopathways. In this system, nitrogenous wastes in the culture media are converted into edible microbial flocs, reducing feed conversion ratios (FCRs), and costs by up to 30% in grow-out conditions. In hatcheries, BFT has an integral role in providing high-quality live foods that are essential for successful reproductive performance and further larviculture. In addition, genetic (fish and shrimp) improvement programs in a closed-life cycle and biosecure conditions is becoming a priority. BFT can maintain biosecurity in a zero or limited water exchange system and ensure stabilized water quality parameters in indoor facilities. Moreover, BFT can provide a wide range of in-situ nutrients, such as fatty acids, vitamins, and phospholipids, that promote broodstock gonadogenesis and gametogenesis to mass-produce high-quality offspring. Additionally, BFT microbial-rich community act as a natural probiotics and contains immunostimulants, such as peptidoglycan derived from bacterial cell walls, which can help against negligent antibiotics utilization In this review, the quality and reproductive performance of biofloc-based broodstock of selected aquaculture species are comprehensively discussed, as well as the further impact on egg and larval quality.

Automated summary

Biofloc Technology (BFT) has great potential in aquaculture, reducing costs and improving productivity. It plays a crucial role in hatcheries by providing high-quality live foods. It maintains biosecurity and provides essential nutrients for successful reproduction and high-quality offspring.