In vitro evaluation of the probiotic potential of gut bacteria native to Oreochromis niloticus
Keywords:
Probiotics, Oreochromis niloticus, Antagonism, Streptococcus agalactiaeAbstract
Probiotics play an important role in the farming of Oreochromis niloticus, as they help maintain the balance of the digestive tract, improve nutrient digestion, strengthen the immune response, and increase resistance to opportunistic pathogens such as Streptococcus agalactiae. The objective of this study was to evaluate the probiotic potential of bacteria native to the gastrointestinal tract of O. niloticus. Bacterial isolation, physical, and biological characterization were performed using morphological observation, Gram staining, biochemical tests, an antibiogram, and evaluation of antagonistic activity against S. agalactiae. Fourteen bacterial isolates were obtained, of which three strains showed probiotic potential. The pH test facilitated the selection of the morphotypes IM-011, IM-012, and IM-013 (Bacillus cereus, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Brevibacterium casei, respectively) due to their high survival rates. The antagonism analysis, based on a factorial design, revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) among the morphotypes and their interactions. Bacillus thuringiensis demonstrated the greatest efficacy at a concentration of 1 × 10⁷ CFU mL-1 (colony-forming units). The extracellular products of these organisms, primarily acetic and lactic acids, contributed to the inhibition of pathogen growth. These results suggest that the identified bacteria are candidates for probiotics, although it is recommended that their effects be validated through in vivo studies.
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