Aloe vera as a behavior modulator for Moenkhausia forestti submitted to transport

ABSTRACT The ornamental aquaculture market has been expanding, and the transport of living organisms in aquaculture is constant, which affects the behavior and health of these organisms. Due to a lack of methods, small fish species are little studied in ornamental aquaculture. Therefore, the use of bioactives can promote positive responses for the management of these species. This study evaluated the behavior of Moenkhausia forestti transported with Aloe vera powder and Aloe vera gel added to the water. A previous assessment of O2 standards in water with the inclusion of Aloe vera was carried out by measuring dissolved oxygen and pH. An increase in dissolved oxygen was observed over time in treatments with added Aloe vera gel, while a drop in oxygen was observed in treatments with Aloe vera powder after 60 minutes. The fish were subjected to the Control, Aloe vera gel, and Aloe vera powder treatments with 10 fish/bag per repetition. They were transported for 4 hours, and behaviors were evaluated immediately after the transport and after 12 and 24 hours upon arrival. The water conditions and transportation did not significantly affect mortality. The use of Aloe vera powder or Aloe vera gel during transport led to a reduction in stress-related behaviors such as erratic swimming, chasing, and biting.