Prospects and Challenges of using Fish Species for Biomedical Research in Nigeria: A Review

Abstract

This review investigates the prospects and challenges of using fishes for biomedical research in Nigeria, highlighting the potential benefits and research application of various fish species in biomedical studies. Fish species have been utilized in biomedical research in different parts of the world due to their unique anatomical, physiological and genetic characteristics.Many fish species have been used in biomedical research, including zebra fish (Danio rerio), Mexican tetra fish (Astyanax mexicanus), killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri), goldfish (Carassius auratus), Medaka (Oryzias latipes), Clarias gariepinus (African Catfish), Tilapia species (e.g., Oreochromis niloticus), Common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Zebra fish (Danio rerio) is one of the most commonly used species due to its genetic similarity to humans and it’s ability to serve as models for various human diseases. The various aquatic habitats in Nigeria provide a rich source of fish species that can be used for different biomedical studies. The potentials of biomedical research is also driven by the fast growth of aquaculture and the study of fish as bio indicators for environmental health. There is also a growing interest in utilizing fish species for biomedical research,in the areas of cancer research, drug development, and toxicological studies in Nigeria. Despite the potential benefits of using fish species in biomedical research, there are several challenges that need to be addressed. Limited infrastructure, funding, and professionalism in fish research may hinder the progress of utilizing fish models in biomedical research in Nigeria. To fully realize these potentials of utilization of fishes for biomedical research, investments in infrastructure, funding and capacity building in fish biology and biomedical studies are necessary.