This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different dietary levels of maca (Lepidium meyenii) root powder on the biochemical indices of zebrafish (Danio rerio) exposed to transportation stress. A total of 300 zebrafish with an average weight of 0.29±0.01 g was randomly divided into four groups (control and three treatments) and fed diets containing 0.5%, 1% and 2% of maca root powder per kg of feed (designated as C [control], T1, T2 and T3, respectively) for eight weeks. At the end of the experiment, the fish were subjected to a 2-hour transportation stress, after which biochemical parameters, liver enzymes and cortisol levels were assessed. The results showed that maca root powder, particularly at the 2%level, significantly reduced glucose, cortisol, triglycerides, cholesterol, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase levels (P < 0.05). Based on the findings, dietary supplementation with maca root powder, especially at 2%, can help mitigate the adverse effects of transport stress in zebrafish.
Safari R, Azadi H, Khajavi A M, Rahbar M, Mortezaei F, Hejrati M H. Protective effects of maca (Lepidium meyenii) on stress biochemical markers in zebrafish during transportation. Ornamental Aquatics 2025; 12 (4) :19-28 URL: http://ornamentalaquatics.ir/article-1-384-en.html