Carbohydrates are considered the least expensive form of dietary energy for animals, but their utilization and metabolism by shrimp is limited. In the absence of adequate dietary carbohydrates or lipids, shrimp will utilize protein to meet their energy needs. When adequate energy is available, the protein will be utilized for growth. This relationship between protein and carbohydrates has been referred to as the protein-sparing action of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates may also serve as precursors for various metabolic intermediates necessary for growth, i.e. non-essential amino acids, nucleic acids, chitin and gelatinized starch will help bind the feed. Although carbohydrates are not a dietary essential for shrimp feeds, their usefulness and cost-effectiveness are undeniable (Akiyama et al., 1992).