Mycotoxins, secondary metabolites produced by fungi, pose significant risks to animal and human health. In the European Union (EU), stringent regulations are in place to control human and animal exposure to major mycotoxins such as aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, and fumonisins.
These regulations are based on available scientific knowledge. However, until recently, extensive research has focused on mycotoxins’ effects on terrestrial livestock and humans, and the impact of these mycotoxins on aquatic species, particularly fish and shrimp was relatively understudied , resulting in general legislation applied to the protection of aquatic species.
In recent years, studies i n both fish and shrimp species indicate that mycotoxin contamination , even below the current regulatory guidelines, can lead to reduced growth performance, impaired immune function, and organ system damage such as the hepatic, renal, and reproductive systems leading to reduced productivity, and welfare and increased environmental impact of aquaculture systems. Moreover, mycotoxin exposure may compromise the quality and safety of aquaculture products, thus posing risks to consumers.
Recent survey efforts, aimed specifically at the aquaculture sector, reveal a high prevalence and co-occurrence of regulated and emerging mycotoxins in aqua feeds. U nderstanding the mechanisms underlying mycotoxin toxicity in aquatic organisms combined with d iligent feed surveillance is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies.
The presented research aims to combine the latest knowledge in the field and to assess whether the current legislation sufficiently protects the aquaculture sector.