Influence of the timing of weaning on growth and survival of juvenile winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus)

In this study, we tested whether late weaning (at settlement (W0) and groups maintained on co-feeding for 1 month (W1), two months (W2), or 3 months (W3) after settlement) could improve juvenile survival and l ipid composition. Our results demonstrated that maintaining co-feeding beyond the larval stage was essential for after-settlement survival. Juveniles co-fed until 90 days after settlement were 32.5% heavier. Analyses of fatty acid trophic markers suggested that juveniles preferentially fed on enrich ed rotifers rather than inert food. No pigmentation or fin erosion problems were observed in any of the weaning treatments, which indicates good rearing conditions.
Source: Canadian Journal of Zoology - Category: Zoology Authors: Source Type: research