Showing papers in "Aquaculture International in 2005"

Fish welfare and quality as affected by pre-slaughter and slaughter management.

Abstract: . A reliable assessment of animal welfare-suffering and of its impact on product quality requires a multidisciplinary approach that takes into account fish behaviour and the different biochemical and physiological processes involved. This might be done by the contemporary study of changes of indicators of brain function, endocrine responses, post mortem tissue biochemical processes and quality changes. This work reviewed some of the most used indices of stress at the time of slaughter, commercial slaughter methods and related stress effects on physical and biochemical parameters of fish quality. The set of the available data seemed to indicate that, although of some results appear contradictory, pre-slaughter and slaughter stressful practices could have an important effect on the flesh quality in fish. A clear effect emerged mostly on the physical properties of flesh, because severe stress at slaughter time exhausted muscular energies, produced more lactic acid, reduced muscular pH, increased the rate of rigor mortis onset. In this way they could have significant negative effects on technological traits, flesh quality and keeping quality of fish. Asphyxia and electrically stunned fish were more stressed than spiked, knocked and live chilled fish. Combining various methods together might be a more satisfactory strategy for both animal welfare and product quality.

Effect of dietary lipid level on growth performance, feed utilization and body composition of grouper Epinephelus coioides juveniles fed isonitrogenous diets in floating netcages

Abstract: An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of dietary lipid levels on growth performance and body composition of grouper Epinephelus coioides juveniles cultured in floating netcages (1.5 m × 1 m × 1.5 m). Six isonitrogenous diets (53% dietary protein) with increasing dietary lipid concentration (5.16, 7.38, 9.73, 12.36, 14.13, 16.04% of dry material, DM) were fed to satiation to triplicate groups of 20 fish (mean weight: 10.9 ± 0.1 g) for 56 days. Dietary energy levels were 300, 322, 340, 371, 382, 400 kcal/100 g DM, respectively. Fish fed the 9L diet had the highest weight gain (WG) and specific growth rate (SGR), but they were not significantly different from that of fish fed the 7L or 12L diet (p > 0.05). FI varied inversely with dietary lipid levels. The poorest FCR and the lowest PER were observed in fish fed the 5L diet but these parameters showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) for fish fed the dietary lipid level ranging from 9 to 16%. Nitrogen intake decreased with dietary lipid levels. Fish fed the 7L diet showed the highest N gain, which was not markedly different from that of fish fed the 9L and 12L diets (p > 0.05). N retention was significantly lower in fish fed the 5L diet than in the other groups. Lipid intake and lipid gain increased with dietary lipid levels. Lipid retention (%) of the 7L diet was lowest but showed no significant differences among other treatments (p > 0.05). Proximate composition of fish body was significantly affected by dietary lipid level (p 0.05). Condition factor (CF), hepatosomatic index (HSI) and viscerosomatic index (VSI) increased with increasing dietary lipid level. Based on second-order polynomial regression analysis of WG against dietary lipid level, a breakpoint of 10.0% was indicated to be the optimal dietary lipid concentration for maximum growth for grouper Epinephelus coioides juveniles cultured in floating netcages.

Polychaetes as indicators of marine fish farm organic enrichment

Abstract: Marine fish farms cause environmental disturbance of sediment due to uneaten food and fish faeces that accumulate on the sea bottom. These products give rise to organic enrichment followed by degradation processes; reduction of level of dissolved oxygen in the bottom water; generation of high levels of sulfides; changes of benthic assemblages and even azoic conditions. The soft bottom benthic communities and, above all, the polychaetes are considered good indicators of environmental perturbations considering their relatively fast changes in diversity and abundance and because their trophic flexibility and life-history traits are considered a pre-adaptation to the condition of disturbed habitats. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the polychaete population changes as a result of organic enrichment produced by a marine fish farm. The study was carried out on a fish farm located in the coastal water of Porto Ercole (Tyrrhenian Sea) with two submersible sea cages and a year production of 180 tonnes. The macrobenthos samples were collected during four campaigns (July and December 2001, May and October 2002). The results showed: 1) a rapid change of the assemblage located beneath the cages related to the fish biomass reared and a high dominance of the opportunistic Capitella spp.; 2) limited sediment disturbance close to cages (20–50 m); 3) no effect in the area 50 m beyond the cages. Two months after the fish harvest and thus reduction of organic enrichment, perturbated assemblages showed signals of recovery like species richness increase and reduction of opportunistic species.

Acute Toxicity of Synthetic Pyrethroid Cypermethrin on the Common Carp ( Cyprinus carpio L.) Embryos and Larvae

Abstract: In this study, the toxic effects on the embryos and larvae of the common carp were used as a model to investigate the synthetic pyrethroid pesticide, cypermethrin, which contaminates aquatic ecosystems. Data obtained from the cypermethrin acute toxicity tests were evaluated using the Probit Analysis Statistical Method. The control and eight test experiments were repeated five times. The number of dead embryos significantly increased in response to cypermethrin concentrations 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 2, 4 and 8 μg l−1 (p<0.05 for each case). The 48 h LC50 value (with 95% confidence limits) of cypermethrin for common carp embryos was estimated at 0.909 (0.256–5.074) μg l−1. Dose–response decreases in hatching success were recorded as 87.4, 85.0, 80.2, 71.4, 56.3, 48.6, 38.8 and 23.5%, respectively. The lowest concentration of cypermethrin (0.0001 μg l−1) produced a significant increase in the number of dead larvae compared to the control group (p<0.05). The number of dead larvae significantly increased with increasing cypermethrin concentrations exposed for 1–96 h (p<0.05). The highest concentration (8 μg l−1) showed the highest larvae mortality. The 96 h LC50 value (with 95% confidence limits) of cypermethrin for common carp larvae was estimated at 0.809 (0.530–1.308) μg l−1. The results of the study suggest that low levels of cypermethrin in the aquatic environment may have a significant effect on the reproduction and development of carp.

Production and economic return of shrimp aquaculture in coastal ponds of different sizes and with different management regimes

Abstract: Coastal shrimp (Penaeus monodon) aquaculture in Bangladesh is mostly practiced in a special type of field/pond situated by the side of a river -- called a Gher -- that is used to cultivate rice in winter and shrimp in summer. Ghers of different sizes are managed in different ways. In order to understand the effects of Gher size and their corresponding management practices on the production and economic returns of shrimp farming, we conducted an on-farm study in three small (1–5 ha), three medium (6–10 ha) and three large (>10 ha) Ghers located in the coastal Southwest region of Bangladesh. The mean harvest weight of shrimp was similar in all Ghers, but survival rates were higher in the small (50%) and medium (37%) ones than in the large (18%) ones. The high mortality in the large units led to a production that was lower than one-half of that in the small Ghers (about 80 and 200 kg/ha, respectively). The total variable costs per unit area were similar in all Ghers, but the importance of different items varied with Gher size. In the small Ghers, there are relatively high investments on inputs and labor. This expenditure results in lower shrimp mortality and higher production, which in turn results in gross returns that are larger than the total costs -- hence, a positive and high net return. In large Ghers, the fixed costs are larger than in the small ones simply because of the size of the pond. Variable costs include higher investments in post-larvae and labor than in small Ghers, and lower inputs applied only at pond preparation. This results in higher shrimp mortality and lower production, which in turn results in gross returns that are smaller than the total costs -- hence, a negative or low net return. These findings have positive implications for the future policy formulation of coastal shrimp aquaculture in Bangladesh.

Changes in muscle collagen content during post mortem storage of farmed sea bream ( Sparus aurata ): influence on textural properties

Abstract: The changes in collagen content and its solubility in sea bream muscle were studied for variable storage times following the death of the fish, and these variables were related to the evolution of physical parameters important for consumer acceptance: firmness and water-holding capacity (WHC). The results show that the collagen content in muscle diminished slightly over storage time and that this variable was directly related to firmness but inversely related to the water-holding capacity. With regard to collagen solubility, a decline was detected in acid-soluble collagen (ASC) in the first few post mortem hours, perhaps related to the end of rigor mortis that occurs at these stages. Pepsin-soluble collagen (PSC) increased, while insoluble collagen (ISC) decreased from 96 h, coinciding with a loss of firmness. This softening can be explained as a result of specific collagenases acting on the insoluble fraction of the collagen.

Haematological, biochemical and immunological parameters as stress indicators in Dicentrarchus labrax and Sparus aurata farmed in off-shore cages

Abstract: In 2000–2001, an investigation was performed in two Sicilian mariculture sites (Pachino and Castellammare) to monitor physiological and biochemical parameters in sea bream (Sparus aurata) and sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) specimens farmed in off-shore sea cages. Plasma cortisol and glucose levels, tissue lactate concentration, haematocrit and haemoglobin content, lysozyme, haemolytic and haemagglutinating activities were determined. During the experiment, an increase in tissue lactate and plasma cortisol levels and a reduction in haemolytic and haemagglutinating titers, were recorded. Changes occurring in these haematological, immunological and biochemical values suggest that these parameters can be useful indicators in assessing the condition of chronic stress induced by mariculture operations.

Effect of Artificial Diets on Growth, Survival and Condition of Adult Cuttlefish, Sepia officinalis Linnaeus, 1758

Abstract: The effects of artificial diets on growth and body condition of adult cuttlefish, Sepia officinalis were tested in two experiments. Supplemented prepared diets (fish myofibrillar protein concentrate) were fed during a 30-day and a 21-day experiments. Growth, feeding rate and food conversion of group-reared cuttlefish were analyzed. The first of these experiments tested four artificial diets, made with increasing levels of lysine, on adult cuttlefish. According to the chemical analysis, diets 1–3 had limiting concentrations of lysine and other essential amino acids (compared to mantle composition of the cuttlefish), while diet 4 was the only one where almost all essential amino acids were present in concentrations similar or higher than the ones present in cuttlefish mantle. A second experiment was conducted by isolating 16 adult cuttlefish individually, and feeding them the same four artificial diets, in order to obtain individual data. During Experiment 1, only the diet with the best chemical score (diet 4) produced growth (p < 0.05), with a mean instantaneous growth rate (MIGR) of 0.30% wet body weight (BW) d−1. Similarly, individually reared cuttlefish fed diet 4 produced the highest IGR’s (0.26, 0.38 and 0.48% BW d−1) and grew larger (p < 0.01). Comparison of cuttlefish fed the artificial diets vs. thawed shrimp and unfed cuttlefish indicated that cuttlefish fed the artificial diets were in an intermediate state. Growth rates obtained with the artificial diets (<0.4% BW d−1) were considerably lower compared to natural prey, live or frozen, reported by other authors.

Comparison of Spore Inoculated and Vegetative Propagated Cultivation Methods of Gracilaria chilensis in an Integrated Seaweed and Fish Cage Culture

Abstract: In Chile the integration of Gracilaria chilensis with salmon culture has shown high potential. Seaweed integrated aquaculture is of great interest as it allows waste recycling within fed cage aquaculture. The development of economically feasible suspended methods of seaweed cultivation is therefore of high importance. Hence, production and performance of two suspended Gracilaria cultivation methods, spore inoculated ropes and ropes with twined field collected seaweed, were studied in open water. The production from spore-seeded ropes was comparable to that of twined ropes for the first month of culture. Thereafter, the twined ropes had a significantly higher productivity. Fish farm wastes had no significant fertilizing effect upon Gracilaria growth rate. In addition, spore-originated thalli and field collected thalli were compared under laboratory conditions and in suspended culture using the same cultivation method. Spore-originated thalli had a 50% lower growth rate than the field collected thalli under laboratory conditions; however, no significant differences were detected in the field. Also, the occurrence of spore coalescence growth enhancement was not significant on the spore-seeded ropes. It was concluded that spore-originated cultivation techniques could be of interest for an integrated open seawater aquaculture system due to the high levels of Gracilaria polymorphism. This would result in greater adaptability to environmental variations, and a continuous supply of restocking material.

Bacteria associated with early life stages of the great scallop, Pecten maximus : impact on larval survival

Abstract: A bacteriological study was carried out at a scallop (Pecten maximus) hatchery near Bergen, western Norway following a severe increase in mortality rates during the larval stages of the scallops. No larvae survived to settling, except for those in groups treated prophylactically with chloramphenicol. In order to identify pathogenic strains of bacteria, we performed a challenge test on 10- to 16-day-old larvae using isolated bacterial strains from the hatchery. Infection with six of these strains produced mortalities that were not statistically different from that resulting from infection with the known pathogen Vibrio pectenicida. However, about 5% of the strains tested in the challenge experiment produced higher motility rates than found in the unchallenged control group, indicating a possible probiotic effect. On the basis of 16S rDNA analysis on these strains, the phylogenetic tree indicated two groups of apparent pathogens: (1) one strain, LT13, grouped together with Alteromonas/Pseudoalteromonas; (2) a cluster of strains grouped together with Vibrio splendidus (LT06, LT21, LT73, PMV18 and PMV19). Strain LT13 was isolated from cultures of the microalga Chaetoceros calcitrans used for feed, while the other strains were isolated from larval cultures. Transmission electron microscopy showed intracellular bacteria that resembled bacteria in the groups Chlamydiaceae and Rickettsiaceae.

Effect of inland water salinity on growth, feed conversion efficiency and intestinal enzyme activity in growing grey mullet, Mugil cephalus (Linn.): Field and laboratory studies

Abstract: Two experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of inland water salinity on growth performance, feed conversion efficiency and intestinal enzyme activity in grey mullet. In experiment I, a 90 day monoculture of grey mullet at different salinity levels (0, 10, 15, 20 and 25%) was carried out. The fingerlings were stocked at 5000 per hectare and fed on a supplementary diet at 5% BW d−1. This Study revealed that fish growth mean body weight (90.5 ± 4.5 g) and mean length (21.6 ± 0.4 cm), SGR (4.70%) and growth per day (0.99 g d−1) were significantly (p 10%). In addition, zooplankton populations increased with an increase in the salinity level. Most of the other hydrochemical characteristics remained at optimal levels in all other treatments. Fish weight gain showed a significant positive correlation with productivity indicating parameters viz. alkalinity (r = 0.53), turbidity (r = 0.62), NPP (r = 0.75) and chlorophyll a (r = 0.46), clearly revealing that fish growth is also related to the trophic status of the ponds. In the second experiment (Experiment II), mullet fry were exposed to five different salinity levels (10, 15, 20, 25 and 30%) and maintained for 70 days in the laboratory. Significantly (p < 0.05) high growth, (SGR and per cent increase in body weight), feed conversion efficiency and intestinal enzyme activity were observed in the group maintained at 10‰ salinity in comparison with other groups maintained at similar salinity levels. Carcass composition, musc1e and liver glycogen levels were also significantly (p < 0.05) affected by salinity changes.

Characterization of water quality in shrimp ponds of different sizes and with different management regimes using multivariate statistical analysis

Abstract: Coastal shrimp aquaculture in Bangladesh is mostly practiced in an agricultural unit called a Gher, which is a special type of agricultural field with elevated surrounding embankments/borders situated by the side of a river that is used to grow rice in winter and shrimp in summer. Ghers of different sizes are managed in different ways. An on-farm project was carried out to study the effects of Gher size and their related management practices on water quality, shrimp production and the economic returns of shrimp farming in the Southwest coastal region of Bangladesh. We present here the results of this project with respect to water quality as explored through factor analysis, which was applied as a way to understand the nature and extent of the effects of different variables. For the majority of the variables and factors, one-half to two-thirds of their variability was explained by changes over time (months), and a further one-quarter to one-third was explained by Gher size and associated management practices. The alternating dry/monsoon season and water management practices determined long-term and large-scale (annual) water exchange in the Ghers that mainly affected processes related to live and dead particles suspended in the water column. Processes related to decomposition and nitrification were more dependent on short-term (days) water circulation in the Ghers, which is turn was reliant on the time span between the exchanges of water in the Ghers and river. Our results show that improved management leads to higher natural and shrimp productivity in the smaller Ghers and strongly support the argument put forward by the policy makers and scientific community in Bangladesh that the smaller the Gher, the better they can be managed and the better the possibility of increased shrimp survival and production.

Safety issues and sustainable development of European aquaculture: new tools for environmentally sound aquaculture

Abstract: Sustainable and long-term growth of the aquaculture industry should involve both ecologically sound practices and appropriate resource management. The increasing economic dimension of Mediterranean aquaculture is opening new economic niches and may be a valid support to reduce the pressure of traditional fisheries. Aquaculture practices can also lead to modifications of coastal habitats through the impact of wastes of land-based and open-sea mariculture facilities. In addition to these aspects which place a direct pressure on aquatic ecosystems and wild fishery resources, a wide range of environmental contaminants, such as chemicals used in farming operations, can accumulate in farmed organisms and put fish health and quality at risk. Thus, as aquaculture makes its transition to a major food-producing sector, proper assessment and control of environmental impacts and food safety awareness are becoming increasingly important. The development of simple tools able to monitor the extent of environmental and biological impacts associated with farming operations at various levels of biological complexity from the ecosystem to the organism level is required. Although a number of techniques for assessing the environmental and biological impact of pollutants in natural ecosystems are available, the development of practical and validated tools is sorely needed in aquaculture.

Utilization of the filter feeder polychaete Sabella

Abstract: The filter feeder sabellid Sabella spallanzanii Gmelin (Polychaeta, Sabellidae) was proposed as biofilter in the treatment of wastes from intensive aquaculture. The species was previously studied concerning reproductive traits and ecological requirements; moreover, previous laboratory experiments indicated a positive action of its feeding activity on solid removal from water column coupled with an interesting microbiological activity. In the present paper data on settlement and growth rate from a natural population, together with data on the bioremediation activity of an adult population, relative to an experiment conducted in a small fish farm are reported. Results seem to encourage further studies on S. spallanzanii for a future utilization in bioremediation of fish farms with recycled water. Data from natural annual settlement indicated, however, the unreliability in obtaining settlers from natural populations, so that the artificial reproduction of the target species will be one of the main points of further investigations.

Analysis of stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes as a tool for assessing the environmental impact of aquaculture: a case study from the western Mediterranean

Abstract: Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios ( 13C/ 12 C and 15N/14 N) of in situ dominant primary producers and consumers were investigated to assess the impact on a natural ecosystem of a land-based fish farm along the south-western coast of Sicily (Italy) The putatively impacted area close to the farm along outfall was compared with other locations at increasing distances from the outfall Carbon and mainly nitrogen stable isotopes revealed evidence of widespread aquaculture waste in the study site: benthic organisms collected in the impacted area showed more enriched δ 15N signatures than those at greater distances from the outfall, suggesting a large contribution of aquaculture waste to the food web By contrast, both nekton-benthic and pelagic organisms seemed to be less influenced by discharge, probably due to their mobile habit

Growth of cultured seahorses (Hippocampus abdominalis) in relation to feed ration

Abstract: This investigation examined the effect of varying feed ratios on cultured seahorse (Hippocampus abdominalis) growth and survival using frozen mysids (Amblyops kempii) at daily feed rations of 5, 10, 15 or 20% wet body weight. Feeding these different feed rations did not result in any significant difference in seahorse standard length after 3 months. However, seahorses fed the 10–20% rations were heavier and with higher condition factor (CF). Based on the total amount of frozen mysids offered to the seahorses, the food conversion ratio (FCR) became less efficient with increasing feed ration. However, when the actual mysid consumption was factored in there were no significant differences in FCR. There was a significant difference in daily specific growth rate (SGR), with the 5% ration having the lowest SGR. On a cost/benefit basis, based on the total amount of mysids offered the most cost effective ration for daily length and weight increase was the 5% ration. With actual mysid consumption taken into account, cost/benefit value favoured the 5 and 10% feed rations. Survival was 100% across all treatments. Based on this, a feed ration of 5–10% wet body weight per day of frozen mysids is recommended for cultured H. abdominalis

Clam farming quality as a management tool: A proposal based on recent studies in Northern Adriatic lagoons

Abstract: The rapid and extensive spread of the clam Tapes philippinarum in Northern Adriatic lagoons, mostly in the lagoon of Venice (550 kmq), has led to severe exploitation by mainly free fishing, thus breaching the law. To contrast this unsustainable overexploitation, to which the present decreasing clam harvests are at least partly due, the local fishing authority has recently prepared a Master Fishing Plan for clam production, which is at present under way: the free fishing system must be replaced by a licencing system aimed at regulating market supply and mainly at converting more than 1000 fishermen into clam farmers. Moreover, a number of regulations for both vessels and harvesting techniques and management rules, such as daily clam harvests and fishing times, have been established. Although these newly introduced regulations may be regarded as valuable tools for preserving both the lagoon environment and the resource itself, they do not adequately consider protection for consumers. Although the licensed water areas have been evaluated as safe according to Italian law, at present no guarantees certify the quality of the clams harvested from them, due to the fact that the lagoon of Venice has polluted areas from which clams may be collected illegally and recycled to the legal market simply by putting them into the approved licensed areas before harvesting and marketing them. This paper therefore proposes a number of measures to be undertaken within the framework of good farming practices. The aim is to improve product quality by certification procedures in all production phases, and to guarantee the definite origin of farmed clams.

A study of the pattern of digestive enzymes in Diplodus puntazzo (Cetti, 1777) (Osteichthyes, Sparidae): evidence for the definition of nutritional protocols

Abstract: The digestive enzymes (proteases, carbohydrases and lipases) present along the alimentary tract of juveniles and adults of Diplodus puntazzo were studied. The data obtained showed a different distribution of the enzymatic activities in the different parts of the alimentary tract. Levels of enzymatic activity in the adults were higher than those measured in juveniles, suggesting that adults have a greater ability to digest larger pieces of food. The enzymatic pattern of D. puntazzo justifies its omnivorous habit and suggests an high potential for digesting vegetable polysaccharides. The results of this study suggest the need to adapt the diet to the digestive potential of this new farming species, thus contributing to the attainment of a product that is qualitatively more similar to the wild one.

Status of Biological Studies and Aquaculture Development of the Mud Crab, Scylla serrata , in China: An Experimental Ecological Studies

Abstract: This is an initial paper in a series of overviews of biological research and aquaculture development of the mud crab, Scylla serrata, in China. Results of experimental ecological studies on mud crabs are reported here. As a result of these experimental studies, results that are important for mud crab culture were also discovered and these include, methods to condition and manage broodstock, determination of ecological conditions that are suitable for embryonic development, and the influence of temperature, salinity, diet and larval density on development and survival of larvae. Results of this work will be useful in establishing a good method for artificial mass culture of larvae.

Influence of high content of dietary soybean oil on quality of large fresh, smoked and frozen Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)

Abstract: Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) was grown in sea cages from 700 g to a market size of 3.2 kg on diets containing either 29% Peruvian high polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) fish oil (FO) or 29% soybean oil (SO) as oil source. Chemical analyses and a triangular consumer test were performed on fresh muscle, while colour, texture and liquid holding capacity (LHC) analyses were performed on both fresh muscle, frozen muscle (stored for 3 months) and smoked salmon. The growth and chemical composition of flesh was not affected by the dietary treatment. The muscle fatty acid (FA) profile was reflected by the dietary oil source, and the amount of malondialdehyde (MDA) was threefold higher in the salmon fed FO than SO. Muscle pigment concentration was significantly different (p < 0.01) with 7.9 mg kg−1 for FO and 5.6 mg kg−1 for SO fed salmon, respectively. This result was also significantly (p < 0.05) reflected in the difference between the instrumentally measured colour of fresh, frozen and smoked muscle, and visual impressions of fresh and frozen muscle. Gaping, texture and liquid holding capacity was not affected by the dietary treatment, and the consumer panel did not detect any differences between the dietary groups. SO can be used as a dietary oil source in the grow-out phase of salmon production without sacrificing product quality in terms of texture, liquid holding capacity and consumer preference. However, a total substitution of high PUFA fish oil by SO in diets for salmon grown to market size, affects muscle colour and the FA profile significantly. (p < 0.05).

Perspectives for development of low impact aquaculture in a Western Mediterranean lagoon: the case of the carpet clam Tapes decussatus

Abstract: Some 30,000 specimens of the Mediterranean clam Tapes decussatus were suspended in nylon bags of two different mesh sizes and pre-grown in the Calich lagoon (Sardinia, Italy) from March to June 2001. The samples differed in size at the end of the pre-growth stage. They were then sown at a density of 650 specimens m−2 in two stations of the lagoon. The growth rates in the stations were different according to the Von Bertalanffy model. Primary and secondary plankton production was calculated by field measurements as well as by modelling. The results indicate that the Calich lagoon could produce a maximum of 753.25 g m−2 yr −1 WW, with shell, for Tapes decussatus. Our culture experiments lasted 15 months with an estimated mortality of 50% and the yield of T. decussatus was 4.3 times greater than the calculated natural production.

Mass production of competent larvae of the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus (Echinodermata: Echinoidea)

Abstract: We evaluated the mass production of competent larvae of the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus cultured at three initial densities (0.25, 0.5, and 1 larvae per ml) and fed Chaetoceros muelleri. Survival, length, dry weight of larvae, and larval stage index (LSI) were estimated in each treatment as a function of the density. Density decreased during the experiment due to mortality, but the percentage was similar in all three treatments (68.5, 66.7, and 76.0%). The experiment was stopped at 13 days after fertilization, when most of the larvae were competent and had settled. There were no significant differences in survival (exceeded 65% in all treatments), length and larval stage index among treatments. However, larvae weight in the two low density treatments (1.1 ± 0.11 mg and 1.2 ± 0.05 mg, respectively) was greater than the high density treatment (0.59 ± 0.376 mg). This study demonstrates that competent larvae of Lytechinus variegatus can be produced with less than 25% mortality in 13 days when cultures are started at densities of 0.25- 1 larvae/ml. Culturing at higher densities (0.5-1 larvae/ml) had no apparent disadvantages and would reduce the cost of production.

Assessment of reference dietary amino acid pattern for juvenile red sea bream, Pagrus major

Abstract: Four semi-purified diets, containing crystalline amino acids (CAAs), were fed to juvenile red sea bream, Pagrus major in order to ascertain the ideal dietary amino acid pattern for this species. A control diet containing 50% casein–gelatin as protein sources, but no CAAs were fed to the fish. The other diets contained 30% casein–gelatin and 20% CAAs. CAAs were added to diets to simulate with amino acid pattern of the red sea bream eggs protein (REP), red sea bream larvae whole body protein (RLP), red sea bream juvenile whole body protein (RJP), and brown fishmeal protein (BFP). The juveniles (average initial body weight, 1.58 ± 0.01 g) were maintained in triplicate tanks and fed twice daily for 30 days. The highest weight gain was observed in juveniles fed the RJP diet. No significant difference was observed in juveniles fed the RLP and BFP diet. Feed efficiency ratio, protein efficiency ratio and amino acid retention in the whole body were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the simulated dietary amino acid patterns. The essential amino acid profile and A/E ratios of the whole body after the growth trial showed little difference among the dietary treatments. The results suggest that red sea bream juveniles are able to utilize high amounts of CAA in coated form. The amino acid pattern of RJP could be used as an appropriate of reference dietary amino acid for this species.

Optimal first feed organism for South African mud crab Scylla serrata (Forskal) larvae.

Abstract: It is not known whether rotifers or Artemia nauplii are the best first food for South African mud crab Scylla serrata larvae. In order to test this, larvae were fed with five different test diets. These were rotifers for the first 8 days and newly hatched EG® type Artemia nauplii (San Francisco Bay) from day 6 onwards (treatment R6A); newly hatched EG® type Artemia nauplii throughout the rearing period (treatment EG); newly hatched Vinh-Chau strain (Vietnam) Artemia nauplii throughout the rearing period (treatment VC); decapsulated cysts of EG® type Artemia throughout the rearing period (treatment DECAP); or decapsulated cysts supplemented with low densities of Artemia EG type Artemia nauplii (treatment MIX). Two experiments were conducted approximately 1 month apart using larvae from two different female crabs. Although results showed it is possible to rear S. serrata larvae through metamorphosis on Artemia nauplii exclusively, larval performance (development, survival and successful metamorphosis) was enhanced by the inclusion of rotifers as a first feed. No significant difference in performance was recorded between larvae fed on the two strains of Artemia nauplii. Larvae fed on decapsulated cysts in treatments DECAP and MIX performed poorly, but there were indications that decapsulated cysts and other inert diets may have potential as supplements to live food in the rearing of S. serrata larvae.

Polydorid infestation in the flat oyster, Tiostrea chilensis: hyposaline treatment for an aquaculture candidate

Abstract: Attempts to commercially farm the Chilean oyster, Tiostrea chilensis in New Zealand are hampered by high levels of shell infestation by the polydorid polychaete, Boccardia acus. Wild stock in the warmer, northern waters of New Zealand typically present a mean of 8.6±,0.7 worms per right upper valve from an early stage of development (~17 mm shell height). Both hypersaline and freshwater treatments were effective in reducing worm numbers, but freshwater treatment for 180–300 min was most effective and resulted in >98% worm mortality without producing any obvious harmful effects on the oyster. Hyposaline treatment is therefore recommended as a simple and cost-effective method for the control of B. acus in farmed T. chilensis.

Utilization of the filter feeder polychaete Sabella spallanzanii Gmelin (Sabellidae) as bioremediator in aquaculture

Abstract: The filter feeder sabellid Sabella spallanzanii Gmelin (Polychaeta, Sabellidae) was proposed as biofilter in the treatment of wastes from intensive aquaculture. The species was previously studied concerning reproductive traits and ecological require- ments; moreover, previous laboratory experiments indicated a positive action of its feeding activity on solid removal from water column coupled with an interesting microbiological activity. In the present paper data on settlement and growth rate from a natural population, together with data on the bioremediation activity of an adult population, relative to an experiment conducted in a small fish farm are reported. Results seem to encourage further studies on S. spallanzanii for a future utilization in bioremediation of fish farms with recycled water. Data from natural annual settlement indicated, however, the unreliability in obtaining settlers from natural populations, so that the artificial reproduction of the target species will be one of the main points of further investigations.

Evaluation of different protein sources in fingerling grey mullet Mugil cephalus practical diets

Abstract: An eight-week experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of different protein sources (fish and haemoglobin meal, soybean meal and torula yeast), in practical diets, on growth, body composition and gut morphology of fingerling grey mullet (Mugil cephalus). Weight gain (%), SGR, FCR, N retention, PER, PGR, FDR and carcass composition of fish were not significantly affected by the dietary protein source. Fish fed the torula yeast based diet showed reduction in growth performance. Histological examinations performed on the alimentary tract of the fish showed a normal structural pattern in the experimental groups, as fundamental histological and histochemical aspects were similar if compared to the control group. The lower growth performance observed in fish fed a torula yeast based diet may be tentatively correlated with the presence of some detrimental morpho-functional aspects in the gut of these fish if compared to fish fed the other diets. Further studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis.

Loading of nutrient from a land-based fish farm(Orbetello, Italy) at different times

Abstract: . A marine fish farm (production ~ 100 tonnes per year) located in the Orbetello lagoon area (Tuscany, Italy) was selected to study the waste water quality discharged. The aims of study were: a) quantify the nitrogen and phosphorus discharged from the fish farm at the beginning and the end of feeding time; b) verify nutrient trend during a daily cycle, and difference of release between nitrogen and phosphorus by reared biomass. From June 1999 to May 2000, water temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen and redox were hourly recorded in output wastewater station (E). Two water sampling strategies were adopted: monthly and daily. Monthly, in E, two field water samples at 8:00 a.m. (E8), at the beginning of feeding, and at 4:00 p.m. (E16), at the end of feeding, were collected. The dissolved and particulate nitrogen and phosphorus were analysed. With respect to total dissolved nitrogen (TDN), the total ammonia (NH3 + NH4+) concentration constituted more than 64%. With respect to total nitrogen and phosphorus, the particulated component represented, respectively, the 16% and 29–36%. A 24 h water sampling, at 4:00, 10:00, 12:00 a.m and at 4:00, 8:00, 12:00 p.m., was carried out. The results showed that TDN was excreted shortly after feeding, with a peak 4 h after the end of feeding. Most of the total dissolved phosphorus (TDP) was excreted after many hours, with a peak 8 h after the end of feeding.

A comparison of growth and biochemical composition of Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lmk.) and Mytilus edulis (L.) on the West coast of Cotentin, Normandy, France 1999–2000

Abstract: The blue mussel, Mytilus edulis has been reared along the Normandy coast line since the 1960s. The gonadal cycle of this mussel species shows a sharp decrease in meat quality during the winter period after spawning. This decline in meat quality is so severe that sales have to be suspended from December to July. Another species of mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis, which is reared in the lagoons along the French shore of the Mediterranean Sea has a different spawning cycle. An experiment was undertaken to study the meat quality of M. Galloprovincialis throughout the year after the spat were transferred from the Mediterranean Sea to the Normandy coast. This species showed an immediate adaptation to the gonadal cycle of M. edulis. Despite suggestions from researchers, no interest was expressed to consider such transfers of M. galloprovincialis in the future.

AFLP and microsatellites as genetic tags to identify cultured gilthead seabream escapees: data from a simulated floating cage breaking event

Abstract: Genetic discrimination using DNA fingerprinting is rapidly developing for cultured stock and wild fish populations. Microsatellites and AFLPs are being widely used in aquaculture to assign fish or processed fish products, to their claimed origin, paternity or strain. In the present study, 147 AFLP and 4 microsatellite markers were used as genetic tags in gilthead seabream, Sparus auratus. Specimens from two different hatchery broodstocks (one of Atlantic and one of Mediterranean origin) and wild fishes from a natural population were fingerprinted. Putative offspring from these broodstocks were computer-generated, and the confidence in the parentage assignment of their genetic profiles to the hatchery broodstock assessed. The virtual offspring were then mixed with specimens from a natural population to simulate an accidental escape from a floating cage. The risk of false paternity inclusion was evaluated to test the ability to identify either Atlantic or Mediterranean hatchery offspring among wild fish. The method proved to be reliable, and could therefore be used to forecast the impact of fish farm escapees.