Aquaculture is gaining momentum in several parts of the world in recent years. Intensification has become a common practice in both finfish and crustacean culture to optimize the returns. High stocking densities, artificial feeding and fertilization have become common husbandry practices in all culture systems. Due to intensification of culture practices, diseases became a major threat to the sustainability of the aquaculture industry.
Synthetic chemicals and antibiotics have been used to prevent or treat fish and shrimp and have achieved at least partial success. An alternative approach has been the application of various natural compounds to boost or stimulate the innate immune system of farmed fish.
In recent years, the established beneficial effects of botanical extract has become more evident and thus promote their application for disease management in many aquaculture practices.
Saponins are glycosides present in many different plants. They are natural surfactants or "soap" like molecules that foam when agitated in a water . This presentation will try to evaluate the potential of Saponins as a possible natural immunostimulat and the benefits that can be gained from using Quillaja and Yucca Saponins.