l-Carnitine and its attributed functions in fish culture and nutrition-a review

The studies on fish exhibit conflicting results: in a number of cases l-carnitine supplementation led to better growth and changes in lipid utilization while in others no effect could be detected. Contradicting results have been reported even with the same fish species. Explanations are provided in an attempt to clarify the discrepancies. Cost effectiveness is an important issue to be considered, and even in cases where l-carnitine has shown positive effects, the levels of this rather expensive substance required might not be economically justifiable.