High Dietary Plant Protein Impairs Astaxanthin Pigmentation in Rainbow Trout by Disrupting Cholesterol-Bile Acid Metabolism and Gut Microbiota.

ABSTRACT: The replacement of fishmeal with plant-based proteins in aquafeeds is key for sustainable aquaculture but may compromise filet pigmentation in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), a quality trait dependent on astaxanthin (Ax) deposition and metabolism. This study aimed to assess the effects of graded fishmeal replacement with a plant protein blend on Ax retention, pigmentation, lipid metabolism, and gut microbiota composition. Rainbow trout were fed three isoenergetic diets containing 60%, 36%, or 12% fishmeal, each supplemented with equal amounts of natural Ax from Haematococcus pluvialis, for 12 weeks. Ax retention, pigmentation, plasma metabolites, lipid digestibility, and distal intestinal microbiota were evaluated. The high plant protein diet (12% fishmeal) significantly

SUBMITTER: Villasante A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12732709 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature