Title : Behavioral shifts and the serotonin blueprint in all-male giant freshwater prawn (macrobrachium rosenbergii): implications for culture practices
Abstract:
Serotonin is a critical neuromodulator that significantly influences the physiology of the Giant Freshwater Prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii), impacting key behaviors such as aggression, social dominance, and reproduction. Its dual role as a neurotransmitter and neurohormone enables it to regulate neural and hormonal pathways, making it essential for adaptive behavioral responses in crustaceans. In aquaculture, serotonin’s effects are particularly relevant as they contribute to optimizing productivity in all-male populations, which are preferred for their superior growth performance. This paper delves into the biological mechanisms through which serotonin exerts its influence in M. rosenbergii. It regulates male differentiation via the androgenic gland by stimulating insulin-like androgenic gland hormone production, which enhances reproductive capability and establishes dominance hierarchies. Additionally, serotonin modulates vitellogenin synthesis and ovarian maturation in females, highlighting its broad regulatory capacity across the sexes. The evolutionary conservation of serotonin’s role in behavioral modulation across species underscores its importance in both crustacean neuroscience and aquaculture applications. Understanding serotonin pathways can guide the development of strategies to manage behaviors such as aggression and mitigate challenges like size variation and cannibalism in farming systems. By synthesizing current research, this paper aims to identify knowledge gaps, propose future research directions, and explore serotonin-based interventions to enhance sustainable aquaculture practices. These insights emphasize the transformative potential of serotonin in improving the productivity and welfare of M. rosenbergii and other aquaculture species.
