G. Ganesh, L. Nischal, D. Mamatha, N. Mohana Swapna, R. S. Sravani, K. Bheemeswararao, H. Sirisha, Hari Sadu
The pacific white shrimp Penaeus vannamei is a major aquaculture species, but disease outbreaks and antibiotic misuse threaten its sustainability. Phytogenic feed additives provide a natural alternative to improve shrimp health and production. This review examines the nutraceutical potential of Astragalus membranaceus and Andrographis paniculata in enhancing growth, digestion, immunity and antioxidant defenses in P. vannamei. Bioactive compounds such as astragalosides and andrographolide stimulate immune pathways, increase phenol oxidase and lysozyme activity and improve feed utilization. Available evidence suggests that combined low-dose supplementation with these herbs may improve survival, disease resistance, water quality and production efficiency while potentially reducing dependence on antibiotics in shrimp aquaculture.