Application of haematology parameters for health management in fish farms

Abstract

Farmed fish are a promising source of high-quality and sustainable protein. However, the production of farmed fish products that meet food safety standards is one of the major public health challenges worldwide. Therefore, food safety management in fish farms has recently garnered increasing attention. However, the detection of health parameters in fish is currently lacking. Haematology, an approach that is widely used in humans, provides a reliable assessment of health status in a non-lethal and lowcost way. Nevertheless, comprehensive, systemic and standard haematological parameters have not yet been established in farmed fish. Here, we provide a summary of the recent advancements in haematology health indicators in fish. Generally, haematological parameters are based on physiological and biochemical indices in blood. After a global review of haematology in fish, we analysed the research progress and current trends in haematology indicators in farmed fish, and explored their potential application for healthy farming. Furthermore, we discuss the internal and external environmental factors that also affect blood physiological and biochemical indices. Finally, we discuss the trends and future challenges for the application of haematology in fish. Collectively, the topics discussed in this review highlight the predictive and severely underrated value of haematological parameters in fish farming.

Effects of different sodium acetate levels on growth, antioxidant capacity, and fat deposition in juvenile Onychostoma macrolepis fed a high fat diet

“…Hematological parameters are widely used in the health management of cultured fish (H. Chen & Luo, 2023). A diet rich in fat can affect the serum parameters of fish (Ji et al, 2021; L. Li, Li, et al, 2020).…”

Indexing serum and mucous biochemical parameters of endangered Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis with implications for health assessment

“…Skin mucous analysis has been considered to be a reliable tool for monitoring the physiological and health status of fish (Franco‐Martinez et al, 2022; Ordonez‐Grande et al, 2020). Some studies demonstrated that biochemical parameters in serum and skin mucus can be used as reliable tools in the health status assessment of fish (Chen & Luo, 2022; Ghodrati et al, 2021). Fernández‐Alacid et al (2018) found that mucous metabolites (glucose [GLU], lactate, protein, and cortisol) can be considered as useful non‐invasive biomarkers for evaluating fish physiological responses.…”