Phytase From Bacillus Spp. – Production, and Characterization for Aquafeed Supplement

Abstract

Aqua feed is primarily composed of canola meal, soya meal, and fish meal, which are the sources of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals required for fish in aquaculture. These meals are majorly plant-based products; therefore, the phosphorus content of these aqua feeds is mainly present as phytate. Phytate (also known as myoinositol-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakisphosphates) remains nutritionally unavailable to aquatic animals due to the unavailability of a phytate degrading enzyme, i.e., phytase. Phytic acid is stored as phytate or phytin, is highly negatively charged and is found in the aleurone layer of seeds or grains. Due to the unavailability of phytase enzymes in aquatic animals, phytate is excreted into the water and causes pollution and eutrophication.