G.Chitra, A.Thamizharasi and N.Krishnaveni
Abstract
The effect of azadirachtin, a triterpenoid derived from neem seed kernel on the immune response was studied in the fresh water fish Catla cat/a. Aeromonas hydrophiia, fish pathogenic bacteria was used as a antigen to evoke immune response.The immune response in fish was measured by quantifying antibodies produced in control and experimental fishes.Azadirachtin significantly enhanced the antibody response and an inverse relationship was observed between the dose of azadirachtin and the degree of immunostimulation.The observed immunostimulatory property of azadirachtin has an implication in the maintenance of finfish health in fresh water intensive aquaculture practices.