Phytotherapy in aquaculture: Integration of endogenous application with science

Aquaculture is a growing industry that contributes about half of the global fish production. However, the production growth of this industry is restricted by many factors and challenges amongst which, infectious disease plays a major role. Some of the convenient and common practices to mitigate diseases in aquaculture are through the use of antibiotics and chemical disease-control agents. These practices, although well-meaning pose tremendous public and environmental health concerns. An alternative approach is via the use of medicinal plants, though this has been practised as an endogenous application to treat or prevent diseases. This biodegradable and environmental-friendly application is known as phytotherapy, or more often commonly called herbalism. Hence, this review article will emphasise on phytotherapy as an alternative treatment for disease in aquaculture and its role in aquaculture. Common diseases threatening aquaculture and the corresponding clinical signs are also discussed in this review. In addition, the mode of action, major classes and side effects of antibiotics are also highlighted. Finally, this review addresses current issues and prospects of phytotherapeutic application in aquaculture.