Dear Philippe,
I agree with you completely. You provide a good overview of the literature dealing with this topic. Most of these studies deal with the mode of action. It is crucial for assessing their activity and performance, something that in human science or other vet disciplines would not be accepted.
Regards,

Enric Gisbert.

I watch for 40 years how well the aquaculture industry manages to generate its own issues without solving the problems. it manages to make money but the problems change as times goes by. It would appear that this changing environment is always chasing its own tail until the next problem arises. The false presumption that all fish species are domesticated because they are kept together and farmed, needs to be much better understood to avoid generating health and stress issues, which in turn generate low performance and health issues. Pro-biotics, antibiotics growth stimulation and immune system protection solutions are a result of lack of understanding.

Immune stimulation should be considered at 2 levels. Firstly, immune stimulation of the targeted animal fish/crustacean or secondly by providing an immune boost through a dietary component. Also what needs to be understood is at what level this immune stimulation occurs. I maintain that the primary aim should be the enhancement of the Innate Immune system components in particular Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs). I believe that immune stimulation within the diet can have the desired effect. It is very well exemplified by the immune stimulation of insects that produce their evolutionary conserved AMP repertoire, that can enhance immune status against infection in an ingesting recipient. It is a way of engaging and utilising natural, evolved, interactive ecosystems for sustainable aquaculture and food production.

Good and informative.

This is an interesting topic and I've gone through your paper. it is sure immune system is very useful so as in higher animals. I am sure this will support not only high production but also improve the health condition of aquaculture species. Only we have to take notice that the chemicals if applied should not develop any side effects in the human health.