PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF ARTEMIA AS A NATURAL ASTAXANTHIN SOURCE AND FEED ADDITIVE FOR ANIMALS
Keywords:
Artemia, astaxanthin, natural pigment, aquaculture, broodstock, bioencapsulation, enrichment, feed additive.Abstract
This article analyzes the prospects of using Artemia (brine shrimp) biomass and enriched Artemia as a natural source of astaxanthin and a functional feed additive for animals. The presence of astaxanthin among Artemia pigments provides a scientific basis for its application in aquaculture for purposes related to pigmentation and product quality. The use of Artemia biomass in broodstock diets can improve reproductive performance as well as egg and larval quality. Enrichment and bioencapsulation approaches enhance the effective delivery of astaxanthin and lipid–vitamin complexes by utilizing Artemia as an efficient carrier. In poultry production, Artemia meal is of interest as a protein source; however, limitations related to salt/electrolyte load and diet balance exist. Issues of biosafety, raw material standardization, and economic efficiency are discussed as key conditions for practical implementation.
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