Journal of Environmental Biology

Synergistic effects of Neem and Moringa on fish (Labeo rohita) health: a challenge study with Saprolegnia parasitica

C. Debnath*     

Division of Animal and Fisheries Sciences, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam-793 103, India

Received: 29 July 2024                   Revised: 30 October 2024                   Accepted: 30 May 2025

*Corresponding Author Email : chandannath23@gmail.com                  *ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5888-7650

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the synergistic effects of Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaves supplementation on the growth, health, immune response, and resistance to Saprolegnia parasitica infection in Labeo rohita under the agro-climatic conditions of Meghalaya, India.

Methodology: Four experimental diets (isonitrogenous and isocaloric) were tested over a 8-week feeding trial: Control (C), Neem-supplemented (N), Moringa-supplemented (M), and Neem+Moringa-supplemented (NM). Growth performance, feed utilization, hematological parameters and immune indices were measured. Fish were then challenged with S. parasitica (1×10⁵ spores m l^-1) and monitored for 14 days.

Results: The NM group exhibited significantly improved growth performance, feed conversion ratio, hematological parameters, and immune indices compared to other groups. Following the challenge, the NM group showed the highest survival rate (86.7%) and lowest infection severity.

Interpretation: Combined supplementation of Neem and Moringa in L. rohita diets can enhance growth, immunity and disease resistance, offering a promising strategy for sustainable aquaculture in Meghalaya and potentially other regions with similar agro-climatic conditions.

Key words: Immunostimulation, Labeo rohita, Moringa oleifera, Neem, Saprolegnia parasitica, Synergistic effects

Copyright © 2025 Triveni Enterprises. All rights reserved. No part of the Journal can be reproduced in any form without prior permission. Responsibility regarding the authenticity of the data, and the acceptability of the conclusions enforced or derived, rest completely with the author(s).