Harnessing nanotechnology for advancements in fisheries and aquaculture: a comprehensive review

With the technological advances, aquaculture and fisheries industries are benefiting a lot. Nanotechnology is among the most emerging and vital driving tools for the thriving aquaculture and fisheries sectors. In recent years, the antimicrobial resistance in pathogenic microbes due to uncontrolled use of antimicrobials and the environmental impact with aquaculture intensification are the major issues of concern. In this context, nanotechnology has profound advantages in enhancing the aquaculture and fisheries industries and ensuring the surrounding environment’s quality. Nanoparticles aid in the well-being (improves growth, health, reproduction, and so on) of the culturing species. Recently, nanocarriers are well-popularized because of their immense potential in delivering encapsulated substances to aquatic organisms. Nanotechnology also promises to preserve the quality and freshness of aqua foods by preventing the growth of harmful microorganisms and increasing the product’s shelf life. Nano-sensors were in use to detect the presence of contaminants in fish samples and water. Moreover, nano-tracing devices helps in tracking a product and also to monitor the aquatic animals. Additionally, nanoparticles benefit aquatic systems by eliminating environmental pollutants (nano-remediation). Conversely, due to the pollution and the overuse of nanoparticles may adversely affect the freshwater and marine water ecosystems. Therefore, this review critically analyses the advances of nano-technological applications in aquaculture and fisheries and outlines their negative impacts on aquatic organisms. More importantly, to determine the precise relevance of nanoparticles, further research must be conducted on the implications of various nanoparticles on aquatic life in the lab and at large-scale applications.