Fusion proteins, recombinant Bacillus cereus family members that express fusion proteins, and exosporium fragments derived from spores of the recombinant Bacillus cereus family members are provided. Compositions comprising the spores or exosporium fragments are also provided. Methods involving the use of spores of recombinant Bacillus cereus family members and exosporium fragments derived from spores of a recombinant Bacillus cereus family member in the fields of animal health and aquaculture are provided. In particular, methods are for provided for using such spores or exosporium fragments for protecting an animal or an aquatic organism from a pathogen. Methods are also provided for using exosporium fragments for producing an immunogenic response in an aquatic animal. Products for use in protecting animals from pathogens are also provided, including adhesive patches, wound dressings, insert trays for livestock footbaths, hoof bandages, feed, feed additives, and insect foggers.
