Probiotic Efficacy of Bacillus Coagulans on Biochemical and Physiological Impacts in Cyprinus Carpio Across Developmental Stages

Abstract

Introduction: Probiotics are developing as a viable alternative to antibiotics in aquaculture, benefiting fish health, metabolism, and immunity. With rising concerns about antibiotic resistance, this research analyzes Bacillus coagulans supplementation in Cyprinus carpio (common carp) fingerlings. Over a 60-day feeding study, we assessed its impacts on biochemical and enzymatic responses, seeking to improve sustainable aquaculture methods by lowering dependency on antibiotics while boosting fish well-being.

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the influence of Bacillus coagulans supplementation on Cyprinus carpio fingerlings’ biochemical and enzymatic responses throughout a 60-day feeding experiment. The research focused on metabolic alterations (glucose, cholesterol, protein, glycogen) and enzyme activity (phosphatases, aminotransferases) to assess the probiotic’s potential in enhancing fish health and promoting sustainable aquaculture.

Methods: Cyprinus carpio fingerlings (15 ± 1 g) were allocated to four groups: a control (C) and three experimental groups receiving B. coagulans at 0.05 × 10⁹ (T1), 0.1 × 10⁹ (T2), and 0.15 × 10⁹ CFU g⁻¹ (T3). Fed a 32% crude protein diet at 3% body weight daily for 60 days, fish underwent biochemical analysis (liver, muscle, intestinal parameters) and enzymatic tests (ACP, ALP, AST, ALT). Statistical significance was established using P-values.

Results: In the T3 group (0.15 × 10⁹ CFU g⁻¹), liver glucose and cholesterol decreased intensely (P < 0.0001), but protein and glycogen increased (P < 0.0002). Muscle glucose declined (P < 0.0009) with increasing protein, and intestine cholesterol lowered (P = 0.0009). Enzyme activities indicated greater ACP and ALP in T3 (P < 0.0525), with decreased hepatic AST and ALT (P < 0.0002), suggesting reduced liver stress and enhanced metabolic performance.

Conclusions: B. coagulans supplementation at 0.15 × 10⁹ CFU g⁻¹ substantially increased lipid metabolism, protein synthesis, and enzymatic activity in C. carpio. Lower glucose and cholesterol, combined more protein and glycogen, reflect effective food usage. Elevated ACP and ALP, with decreasing AST and ALT, suggest improved metabolic health and lower hepatic stress. These results underline B. coagulans potential as a probiotic, promoting fish health and sustainable aquaculture by lowering antibiotic reliance.