Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Biosynthesis Across Three Trophic Levels in Freshwater Aquaculture: Current Knowledge and Perspectives

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential nutrients for aquatic organisms and play key roles in growth, reproduction, neural development, and immune function. In freshwater ecosystems and aquaculture systems, the availability of these lipids depends on complex interactions within aquatic food webs, where PUFAs are produced by primary producers and transferred to higher trophic levels. This review summarizes current knowledge on the biosynthesis, regulation, and trophic transfer of PUFAs in freshwater aquaculture food webs, with particular emphasis on interactions among microalgae, zooplankton, and fish larvae. The main biochemical pathways and regulatory mechanisms responsible for PUFA synthesis in microalgae are described, together with the environmental factors that influence their production. The role of zooplankton at an intermediate trophic level is discussed, highlighting their ability to retain, modify, and transfer dietary fatty acids to higher consumers. Finally, the capacity of freshwater fish larvae to synthesize and regulate long-chain PUFAs through key metabolic enzymes is examined, along with the influence of diet and environmental conditions on these processes. By integrating information from molecular, biochemical, physiological, and ecological studies, this review provides an overview of the mechanisms underlying PUFA production and trophic transfer in freshwater aquaculture food webs.