Fortification and reassembly of microbiome following husbandry stressors

Part of the Fish Health and Nutrition theme from the Environmental and Applied Biology Research Group
Salmon farm, courtesy of Getty Images

Novel mucosal microflora stabiliser (MMS) to fortify the mucosal barrier of different external mucosal tissues of Atlantic salmon under challenging conditions

Atlantic salmon is a key species with more than 2.5 million tonnes, valued at $15.6 billion, farmed annually. However, mucosal infections, particularly those caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum, pose a major industry challenge, leading to high mortality rates, severe skin and gill damage, and immune suppression. Current treatments, including mechanical, thermal, and chemical methods such as antibiotics, often cause mucosal dysbiosis and weaken fish immunity.
This project aims to develop a novel mucosal microflora stabiliser (MMS) delivered via bath treatment to restore and reinforce the skin and gill microbiota, improving mucosal integrity, immune resilience, and pathogen resistance.
The project will assess how well MMS reduces dysbiosis in external mucosal-associated lymphoid tissues (MALT), particularly in the skin and gills, following stress-inducing husbandry practices. It also seeks to develop a low-regulatory-barrier intervention with broad applications across global salmon production systems.
This study will produce scientifically robust and industry-relevant data on the potential of MMS as a next-generation mucosal health intervention for salmon aquaculture. By addressing a critical challenge in fish health management, it aims to reduce antibiotic reliance, improve fish welfare, and enhance the resilience of global aquaculture systems.
Salmon swimming against river current. Norway, Stavanger region, Rogaland, Ryfylke scenic route. Salmon in these rivers is a very significant part of the worldwide stock of Atlantic salmon. Courtesy of Getty Images.
 

Evaluating the potential of brewer’s yeast functional feed additives to fortify the intestine and prevent antibiotic-associated dysbiosis in mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio)

This project aims to investigate how antibiotic use disrupts the intestinal microbiome and health of carp, a key aquaculture species, and whether brewer's yeast-derived functional feed additives (FFAs) can counteract these negative effects. The study will assess the extent of dysbiosis and damage to intestinal integrity caused by antibiotics, particularly oxytetracycline, and evaluate the potential of FFAs to restore microbiome balance and intestinal function.
Mirror carp swimming underwater

Aquaculture: Fish Health and Nutrition

The University of Plymouth has a strong research track record in the fields of fish health and nutrition dating back more than three decades.
Led by Dr Daniel Merrifield , the Fish Health and Nutrition research team actively engages with hatcheries, aquaculture farms and various other organisations, nationally and internationally, to support and conduct research and development at fundamental and applied levels contributing to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, 2 (Zero Hunger), 12 (Sustainable Consumption and Production) and 14 (Life Below Water).
Sustainable aquaculture facilities