The Effect of Hydrolyzed Collagen‐Enriched Diet on Aquaponic Tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus ) Skin Properties

The use of marine collagen for regenerative applications is rapidly expanding. Tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus ) skin is an emerging byproduct of food industry and a valuable biomaterial known for its pro‐regenerative properties. Enhancing its intrinsic composition through nutritional strategies could further improve its clinical potential. This study investigates the impact of a hydrolyzed collagen‐enriched diet on the skin properties of aquaponically farmed Tilapia, with the aim of enhancing collagen content while preserving tissue homeostasis. The results showed a modulation of key amino acids and fatty acids, suggesting a favorable shift toward anti‐inflammatory and pro‐regenerative properties. A measurable increase in skin thickness and hydration was registered, as well as an ECM remodeling. No detrimental effects on mineral content or mechanical integrity were observed. These findings demonstrate that dietary supplementation with collagen can be an effective, non‐invasive, approach to improving the biomedical quality of fish‐derived skin products.