Theses and Dissertations

ORCID

0009-0003-9017-8960

Advisor

Yamamoto, Fernando

Committee Member

Jordan, Heather

Committee Member

Allen, Peter

Date of Degree

8-12-2026

Original embargo terms

Visible MSU Only 2 Years

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Campus Access Only

Major

Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Forest Resources

Department

Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture

Abstract

Modern aquaculture faces significant challenges, such as bacterial diseases. The catfish industry is particularly vulnerable to bacterial outbreaks do to intensive production practices. The use of antibiotics has been restricted by the rise of antimicrobial resistance and the demand for antibiotic-free farmed animals by retailers, which ultimately drives the search for alternatives. Phytogenic compounds have been investigated as antibiotic alternatives, although results remain inconsistent. Consequently, this study evaluated the impact of carvacrol as a dietary additive in channel catfish. Growth, physiological, and immunological responses, gut microbiota, and resistance to Edwardsiella ictaluri were evaluated. A decreased growth performance was observed for channel catfish as levels of dietary supplementation of carvacrol increased, but there were no differences in the other physiological variables. Alterations in the intestinal microbiota and a treatment response to infection were observed, with no clear benefits at lower concentrations of carvacrol.

Sponsorship (Optional)

This work was supported by a Graduate School Travel Grant from Mississippi State University

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