Vitamin E

Abstract

Numerous studies have demonstrated that vitamin E is a dietary essential for different fish species and has a marked effect on fish physiology. The widely documented function of vitamin E is its antioxidant activity. The high vitamin E requirements of fish larvae have been associated with high PUFA needs during larval stages. Vitamin E has been considered as a key immune stimulating factor in fish. Early studies in rainbow trout suggested the potential immune stimulatory value of vitamin E in enhancing disease resistance of fish. Vitamin E deficiency has negative consequences on fish health including the occurrence of anemia, muscular dystrophy, liver damage, skeleton anomalies, and mortalities. However, more research is needed to define the specific dietary requirements for this vitamin, particularly in relation to the presence of different lipid sources and pro‐ and antioxidant nutrients to take full advantage of the beneficial effects of vitamin E on fish health.