Integrative analysis of Eleusine coracana L. phenolics and their impact on the health and resilience of clams (Ruditapes decussatus)

This study investigates the impact of dietary supplementation with an aqueous extract of eleusine (EAE) on the growth performance, antioxidant status, immune responses, and digestive gland histo-architecture of carpet clams (Ruditapes decussatus). The EAE analysis, using LC–ESI–MS, showed nine flavonoids and eight phenolic acids, with quinic acid emerging as the predominant compound at 536.5 µg/g, followed by quercitrin (435.8 µg/g) and naringenin (261.1 µg/g). The EAE showed notable antioxidant activities, as seen by its potential to chelate Fe²⁺ ions (IC₅₀ = 0.35 ± 0.02 mg/mL), inhibit β-carotene bleaching (IC₅₀ value: 0.32 ± 0.03 mg/mL), and scavenge DPPH• radicals (IC₅₀ = 0.5 ± 0.04 mg/mL). The EAE-supplemented diet significantly reduced MDA levels (p < 0.05) compared to the control, indicating a potential reduction in oxidative stress. In addition, phenoloxidase activity significantly increased (p < 0.05) with EAE supplementation to 0.247 ± 0.019 U mg⁻¹ compared to the control diet’s 0.110 ± 0.021 U mg⁻¹, suggesting a supportive role in immune health by the bioactive compounds from EAE. The PCA analysis showed many positive and negative correlations between different markers, highlighting the complex regulatory mechanisms that balance various physiologic processes to maintain homeostasis and overall health of clams. These results could inform the development of sustainable aquaculture practices, prioritizing natural phenolics to enhance the health and resilience of marine populations. They also encourage integrating similar strategies into broader environmental management initiatives, promoting ecosystem health in aquatic environments.