Veterinary Research Forum

Role and applications of plant essential oils in aquaculture

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Zahra Mahmoudikiya 1
Reza Roshandel 1
Ahmad Imani 1
Kourosh Sarvi Moghanlou 1
Saeid Meshkini 2

1 Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran

2 Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran

10.30466/vrf.2026.2087275.5076
Abstract
Aquaculture has a fundamental role in supporting global food security. In response to the escalating human requirement for protein, the production of aquatic species is expanding rapidly. Conversely, aquatic animals are frequently subjected to a variety of husbandry stress, including handling and high stocking densities. They trigger physiological stress responses negatively affecting biological processes, such as somatic growth, reproduction, and immune function, ultimately resulting in inferior performance and high mortality rates. Although antibiotics are still extensively employed, their persistent administration is associated with the emergence of bacterial resistance, destabilizes endogenous microbiota, and causes chemical residues accumulation within aquatic environments. Therefore, the industry has shifted towards eco-friendly therapeutic strategies. In this context, plant essential oils have emerged as promising feed additives. The EOs contain a rich array of bioactive compounds, possessing anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, and immuno-stimulatory activities. The administration of EOs has been evaluated in a wide range of aquatic species to characterize their therapeutic potential and establish optimal inclusion levels. Research findings indicate that plant EOs represent effective substitutes for antibiotics, playing prominent roles in growth promotion, oxidative stress mitigation, and immune modulation. The present context reviews the beneficial roles of essential oils in modern aquaculture.

Keywords

Anti-oxidants
Aquaculture
Feed additives
Immuno-stimulants
Plant-derived essential oils
Subjects
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Veterinary Research Forum
Volume 17, Issue 8
August 2026
Pages 527-544

  • Receive Date 21 April 2026
  • Accept Date 30 May 2026

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