Beyond a Physical Barrier: Fish Mucus as an Emerging Source of Bioactives

Fish mucus is often viewed as a physical barrier on the fish body separating it from the aqueous environment. However, it is actually a biologically active layer that plays an important role in protecting fish. It is rich in mucin proteins, antimicrobial peptides, enzymes, immune-related proteins, lipids, and other bioactive compounds.Mucusprotects against pathogens and environmental challenges. Recent studies have also highlighted its antimicrobial, wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and other potentially beneficial properties. In addition, microorganisms naturally associated with fish mucus may contribute to disease resistance and offer possibilities for probiotic applications in aquaculture. These findings are expanding our understanding of fish mucus from a protective barrier to a promising natural source of bioactive compounds. Further exploration of these molecules could open new avenues for their application in cosmetics, biotechnology, aquaculture and biomedicine.