Azadirachta indica as a sustainable nutritional alternative in Nile tilapia farming—A mini review

Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus is the most cultivated fish species in continental waters and represents the second most important group for global aquaculture. In Brazilian continental fish farming, diseases represent an annual loss of approximately US$84 million. Aiming to minimize these adversities, researchers are constantly investigating viable alternatives to improve fish health, mainly through diet. At present, various products of plant origin are tested in aquaculture as growth and health promoters in fish as an alternative to chemotherapeutics and antibiotics, which represent real concerns for the health of animals, environment, and consumers. Azadirachtin, also known as neem extract, is a bioactive phytocompound extracted from Azadirachta indica, with great microbicidal and immunostimulating potential. In animal feed, neem extract or azadirachtin have already been tested as growth promoters, immunostimulants and modulators of the gastrointestinal microbiota. In recent years, many studies involving the use of azadirachtin and other neem derivatives have presented varied and controversial results in aquaculture, with positive and negative effects on the productive performance and health of animals. Therefore, the present review aimed to systematize information about A. indica and its derivatives, considering the viability for use in tilapia farming.