Phosphorus in aquaculture

The use of Aliphos Feed phosphates

It is not always easy to gather information on phosphorus digestibility of the feed materials used in aquaculture. There are numerous reasons for this, most notably the fact that there are many species with different intestinal and digestive systems. Certainly also in the past, due to the high use of fish meals, phosphorus or digestible phosphorus supplementation was not an issue.

Therefore, Aliphos has carried research into the phosphorus digestibility of its feed phosphates. Because of the vast number of aqua cultural species, a selection has been made and these trials were carried out with trout and shrimps.

The role of phosphorus in the nutrition of fish

Minerals including phosphorus are essential for our bodies, equally so for fish. However, fish can obtain most of the minerals they require (calcium, sodium, potassium) directly from the water (especially in sea-water). Phosphorus, however, is one of the essential minerals that must be supplied via the diet. Phosphorus (together with calcium) is a structural component for bones, teeth and scales. In addition, it plays a role in several metabolic processes. Reduced growth rate, reduced feed efficiency and bone deformities are the most common signs of  (digestible) phosphorus deficiency.