The increasing restrictions on antibiotic use in aquaculture are accelerating the search for natural alternatives that can safeguard fish health and maintain high productivity. Phytogenic additives—plant-derived compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and immunostimulant properties—represent a promising solution. This study evaluated two phytogenic products, PhytoAqua® (an oral solution based on essential oils) and AroMar® (a powder premix containing plant extracts and organic acids), under real-world commercial tilapia farming conditions in Brazil.
Trials were conducted across three commercial fish farms. Control groups followed standard farming practices (with or without antibiotic use), while treated groups received PhytoAqua® (approx. 0.7 mL/kg of feed) or AroMar® (2 g/kg of feed). Key performance indicators—survival rate, final weight, and feed conversion ratio (FCR)—were monitored during routine operations and periods of bacterial challenge (notably during summer months).
Results showed that phytogenic treatments improved survival by up to 6% (94% vs 88% in controls), increased final body weight by 15 grams over 44 days, and reduced FCR compared to both untreated and antibiotic-treated groups. Under bacterial stress, phytogenic products delivered performance equal to or better than florfenicol, a commonly used antibiotic. The consistency of outcomes across different farms reinforces the robustness of these findings.
In conclusion, PhytoAqua® and AroMar® offer effective, natural alternatives to antibiotics in tilapia farming. By enhancing intestinal health, immunity, and stress resilience, they contribute to improved survival and growth performance. These plant-based solutions align with sustainable aquaculture practices, meeting both regulatory and market demands for reduced antibiotic use.
Keywords: Aquaculture; Tilapia; Phytogenic additives; Antibiotic alternatives; Growth performance