Dietary supplementation of mushroom extract enhances growth and antioxidant levels of Babylonia spirata (Mollusca: Gastropoda)

Marine gastropods are economically important molluscs around the globe. Recently, they have received increased attention owing to possible medicinal properties of their meat and ornamental applications of their shells. In this study, Calocybe indica (Milky mushroom) extract was used as a feed additive to improve Babylonia spirata growth and antioxidant levels. Increasing percentages of mushroom extract dietary supplementation was correlated with an increased B. spirata body weight and shell length. As well, enhanced antioxidant (SOD and Catalase) and total carotenoid content levels were noticed in 30, 60 and 90 days, mushroom extract is supplementation compared to control group whelks. Besides, 6% mushroom extract supplementation followed by Aeromonas hydrophila challenged whelks improved total carotenoid content also reduced mortality rate compared to other percentage of supplemented and control whelks. In conclusion, 6% mushroom extract supplementation likely recommended to increase health management of whelks.