In fish farms and hatcheries, the biotic and abiotic factors
that affect sperm quality are diverse and are dependent
on complex interactions between genetic, physiological,
and environmental factors [20]. Improvements in broodstock
nutrition and feeding greatly improve gamete quality
and seed production [4]. The importance of the dietary
antioxidant function of vitamin C on male fish fertility has
been reported in rainbow trout [33]. This provides protection
for the sperm cells by reducing the risk of lipid peroxidation
and ascorbic acid deficiency which reduces both
sperm concentration and motility (consequently, the
fertility) [34].
In the case of astaxanthin, a synergistic antioxidant effect
was found with a-tocopherol [35–37] protecting
against the early stages of lipid peroxidation.