Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
15.Ulusal Zootekni Öğrenci Kongresi , Adana, Türkiye, 9 - 11 Mayıs 2022, cilt.1, ss.136-137
Microalgae are aquatic unicellular or multicellular microorganisms and their size changes from 0 to 200 µm. They are considered photoautotrophic and heterotrophic organisms. Microalgae have a wide range of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, bioactive compounds, such as pigments, PUFAs, and antioxidants, so they can be used as supplements in animal feeds. Some microalgae produce high amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega -3 i.e.) including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acids (DHA) and when they use in animal diets the amount of these components for enriching EPA and DHA levels in meat, milk and eggs. Also some strains from the Phaeodactylum, Nannochloropsis, Arthrospira, Thraustochytrium and Schizochytrium genera can produce a high amounts of EPA, DHA, and/or γ-linolenic acid. However, microalgae have a variable nutrient components, depending on their species, and production environment, enzymes, and status of biomass (whole algae or defatted meal). About 30% of the total algal production is sold for animal feeding. The algae of Spirulina (Arthrospira) and Chlorella sp. belong to major microalgae used for animal feeding. Microalgae such as Chlorella and Spirulina are used in animal feeds and very positive results are obtained. Spirulina has a high protein (60 to 71%) and supports both protein and essential fatty acids when added to the diet, and the omega-3 fatty acid content of the products (total PUFA ratio 1.7%, and linoleic and γ-linolenic acids account of its 45%). ) may increase significantly, depending on the level involved. In studies with microalgae, comparisons are made with rations that include fish meal and oil as omega-3 sources, and satisfactory results are obtained. However, studies have shown that when they add more than 10% to the ration, they reduce performance and therefore should be used at a limited level. Microalgae can be used in the production of functional animal food thanks to its richness in nutrient content and active ingredients.