DMPT (Dimethyl-β-propiothetin) is a highly effective aquatic feed attractant and nutrient metabolism regulator with numerous applications in aquatic animal nutrition. DMPT is a natural osmotic regulator found in marine plants and halophytes, and is also widely present in seaweed and wild fish and shrimp.
Its core functions in aquatic animal nutrition include:
1. Strong Feed Attraction Effect
Olive Stimulation: Aquatic animals have a sensitive sense of smell; DMPT can stimulate their olfactory system through the water, producing a strong feeding response.
Taste Activation: The **(CH₃)₂S- group** in the molecule is a key group for activating taste receptors in animals. Behavioral and electrophysiological studies of fish have shown that this group has a very strong attractant effect on fish.
Effect Comparison: The feeding stimulation effect is 2.55 times higher than that of glutamine.
2. Methyl Donor Promotes Growth: The **(CH₃)₂S-group** on the DMPT molecule functions as a methyl donor, which can:
Promote the secretion of digestive enzymes in aquatic animals, enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption;
Improve feed utilization;
Provide abundant methyl groups to the body, promoting amino acid reformation and improving amino acid utilization;
Strengthen methylation during RNA translation, enhancing protein synthesis;
3. Enhances Stress Resistance:
Improves the mobility of aquatic animals (tolerance to high temperatures and hypoxia);
Improves the adaptability and survival rate of juvenile fish;
Acts as an osmotic buffer, enhancing tolerance to osmotic pressure fluctuations;
Maintain normal cellular osmotic pressure, preventing dehydration and death;
4. Promotes Molting Growth in Crustaceans:
For shrimp, DMPT is a water-soluble molting hormone analog;
Accelerates shrimp growth by promoting molting;
The effect is more pronounced in the later stages of shrimp and crab farming;
5. Liver protection and health benefits:
Improves animal health and reduces the organ meat to body weight ratio;
Improves meat quality and increases economic value;
Has health benefits similar to allicin;
The rational use of DMPT in aquatic feed can significantly increase feed intake, growth rate, and feed utilization, but the recommended dosage must be strictly followed to avoid excessive use and ecological risks.
