Selênio e vitamina em dietas para tilápias Oreochromis niloticus

Abstract

Among the species of fish that demonstrate potential for cultivation in Brazil, Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is considered the most productive species. This species has several advantages, including: rapid growth, increased fillet yield, low quality water resistance and good acceptance in the consumer market. In fish nutrition there are several aspects to be evaluated in a ration. Selenium and Vitamin E are part of a multicomponent antioxidant defense system. This system protects the cells against the adverse effects of reactive oxygen species and other free radicals that initiate oxidation. In addition, supplementation of Vitamin E in the diet provides greater productive performance, positive effects on immunological parameters of fish and resistance to stress. Selenium is an element that has a narrow margin between the levels of demand and toxicity. The requirements are low, but if not achieved, could compromise the antioxidant system and cause serious consequences for the animal metabolism. The fish's ability to accumulate selenium in tissues can make fish fillet an interesting functional food for human nutrition, especially as a good source of selenium. Nile Tilapia has a level of specific requirement of selenium and vitamin E that cannot be satisfied only by the aquatic environment. Thus a correct supplementation of minerals and vitamins in diet can ensure higher performance, providing a better quality of fish fillet and better market acceptance.