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Mycosporines and mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs): Applications, opportunities, and future perspectives in ornamental aquaculture and aquatic animal health
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R. Badali *   , F. Farokhi , R. Manaffar , R. Roshandel |
| Department of Biology, Faculty of science, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran |
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Abstract: (26 Views) |
| Mycosporines and Mycosporine-Like Amino Acids (MAAs) are a group of naturally occurring secondary metabolites found in cyanobacteria, algae, fungi, and various aquatic organisms. These compounds are well known for their strong ability to absorb ultraviolet radiation (UV-A and UV-B), thereby providing effective photoprotection. Alongside other valuable cyanobacterial bioactive compounds, such as scytonemin and phycobiliproteins, MAAs have attracted considerable scientific interest because of their diverse biological activities. Recent studies have demonstrated that, in addition to their UV-screening function, MAAs possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, and stress-modulating properties. These characteristics have highlighted their potential as novel functional additives in aquaculture. In ornamental aquaculture systems, high stocking densities, transportation, environmental stressors, water quality fluctuations, and disease outbreaks represent major challenges affecting animal health and welfare. Available evidence suggests that MAAs may contribute to improved resilience and physiological performance by reducing oxidative stress, enhancing defense mechanisms, and increasing tolerance to adverse environmental conditions. This review summarizes the chemical structure, biosynthetic pathways, natural sources, extraction methods, and biological properties of MAAs. Furthermore, their potential applications in nutrition, health management, stress mitigation, and the development of innovative products for the ornamental aquaculture industry are discussed. Finally, current challenges, research gaps, and future prospects for the commercialization and application of MAAs in ornamental aquaculture are highlighted. |
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| Keywords: Mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), Mycosporines, Ornamental aquaculture, Ornamental fish, Aquatic animal health, Oxidative stress, Cyanobacteria |
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Full-Text [PDF 576 kb]
(7 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2026/06/1 | Accepted: 2026/07/1 | Published: 2026/07/1
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