Correction: This article has been updated to remove an incorrect characterization of BioMar's product, which is a functional feed.
Aarhaus, Denmark-based aquaculture feed company BioMar launched a new functional feed product called SmartCare Defence which aims to limit bacterial infections in seabass during high-risk farming in the Mediterranean Sea.
Bacterial diseases are still one of the most significant issues for seabass production, the company said in a release. Mitigation tactics like vaccinations against specific pathogens have helped, but outbreaks caused by “genera such as Photobacterium, Vibrio, and Aeromonas” still ravage seabass populations and cause widespread mortality during aquaculture practices.
BioMar said its SmartCare Defence provides a functional feed solution that instead relies on seabass’ natural defenses against deadly bacterial outbreaks. The product has been in the research and development phase for over five years and combines controlled laboratory trials with large-scale commercial validation, the company said.
"The goal was to develop a feed solution that works with the fish’s own defense mechanisms, rather than reacting once problems occur,” BioMar veterinarian Elena Planas said. “SmartCare Defence is designed to be used proactively, particularly ahead of periods when bacterial pressure is known to increase.”
In the control trials, BioMar utilized the functional feed against fish infected with a bacteria called Photobacterium damselae piscicida, which commonly kills. The control trials using the functional feed saw a significant reduction in mortality, and results were consistent in control trials and commercial farming conditions, the company said.
“It's a new tool for an improved comprehensive health management,” BioMar Product Manager Bruno Noguerra said. “Seeing comparable survival benefits in both controlled trials and real production environments gives farmers confidence that this is a practical, reliable tool they can integrate into their health management strategies."
BioMar also studied the intestines and kidneys of fish, using a scientific method called gene expression analysis, which measures RNA levels to determine how active certain genes are. Results showed positive effects on intestinal integrity and immune-related pathways, the release said.
SmartCare Defence will be available for order starting in March 2026, and the company said it is suitable for all production phases and farming systems. Additionally, the company said it is “particularly recommended ahead of predictable risk periods.” BioMar’s technical services team will assist with implementation if purchased and will follow-up on the farm after the product is distributed to oversee results.
