Dietary phytoimmunostimulant Persian hogweed (Heracleum persicum) has more remarkable impacts on skin mucus than on serum in common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

摘要

Immunostimulation through the use of sustainable and eco-friendly dietary additives is one of the current prophylactic strategies in fish husbandry. Plant-based immunostimulants are highly considered for this intent, both for their scientific and practical advantages. Persian hogweed (Heracleum persicum) is a flower-bearing herb that possesses interesting pharmacological importance due to its bioactive compounds. It is commonly used as spice, food additive, dietary supplement and traditional remedy. The present study evaluated the potential of H. persicum as a dietary phytoimmunostimulant in common carp (Cyprinus carpio). The powder form of H. persicum was incorporated in the basal diet at three different inclusion levels: 2.5, 5 and 10 g kg(-1). The basal diet (0 g kg(-1) of H. persicum) served as control. Experimental diets were administered to the fish for a period of 8 weeks. At the termination of the feeding experiment, impacts on fish immunity and performance were evaluated.