Vitamin A in Fish Well-Being: Integrating Immune Strength, Antioxidant Capacity and Growth

Abstract

This review synthesizes the multifaceted role of vitamin A in fish well-being, encompassing immune function, antioxidant capacity and growth regulation, providing a comprehensive understanding of its significance in fish diets and implications for aquaculture. Key objectives include exploring the role of vitamin A in fish immunology, growth impact, oxidative stress status, and future directions. Vitamin A is critical for immune cell development, enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses. It maintains mucosal integrity and modulates phagocytic activity, crucial for pathogen defense. Growth regulation is influenced by vitamin A through cellular differentiation and morphogenesis, essential for tissue and skeletal development. Studies indicate that vitamin A supplementation improves growth metrics and body composition across various fish species. Vitamin A also combats oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals, enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity, and inducing autophagy, thus protecting cellular components from oxidative damage. Interactions with other vitamins like E, D, and C highlight the importance of balanced nutrition in aquaculture. Integrative management practices, including nutritionally balanced diets, optimal water quality, stress reduction, and environmental enrichment, are recommended to maximize fish health and productivity through adequate vitamin A utilization.