The present study found that fish fed with 10% spirulina exhibited significant haematocrit values. The increase in
the immunity stimulating capacity (measure by a lysozyme activity assay) was significant in all fish groups given
basal diet supplemented with S. platensis at the 2nd and 3rd month.
Lysozyme is found in a wide range of vertebrates including fish and is one of the defensive factors against
invasion by microorganisms. The increase in the immunity stimulating capacity could be due to the presence of
C-phycocyanin in the Spirulina alga, which can help build the immunity capacity (Vonshak, 1997). Results were
in accordance with Tayag et al. (2010) who concluded that the white shrimp L. vannamei that received the
hot-water extract of S. platensis had enhanced innate immunity as lysozyme and increased resistance against V.
alginolyticus infection.
reported enhancement of the peritoneal phagocytes from channel catfish, I. punctatus fed S. platensis, Spirulina
algae contain carotenoids, which specifically improving fish health and increasing the ability to fight off infections
through the reduction of stress levels. In addition, Watanuki et al. (1990) reported that S. platensis activated the
functions of leucocytes, such as phagocytosis and production of superoxide, and cytokines production in
common carp, Cyprinus carpio