Performance and health responses of Litopenaeus vannamei to mushroom-derived myco-meal as a soybean meal replacement

The growing demand for sustainable aquafeeds has intensified the search for alternatives to fishmeal and soybean meal. Fungal-derived proteins, particularly mushroom-based meals, remain underexplored in shrimp nutrition despite their potential to provide both nutritional and functional benefits. This study evaluated the effects of dietary mushroom-derived myco‑meal (MM) inclusion on growth performance, immune function, gut microbial balance, and physiological responses of whiteleg shrimp ( Litopenaeus vannamei ) during a 60-day feeding trial. Experimental diets were formulated with varying MM to soybean meal substitution levels (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%). Growth performance was maximized at 50% MM inclusion, where specific growth rate and feed utilization peaked. Moderate MM levels also enhanced gut lactic acid bacterial counts and hemocyte density, indicating improved microbial balance and immune stimulation. However, excessive substitution (≥75%) led to reduced blood glucose and potential metabolic trade‑offs. Overall, myco-meal can replace up to 50% of soybean meal in shrimp diets without compromising growth or health, offering a practical and sustainable protein alternative.