A review of the use of copepods in marine fish larviculture

Abstract

In spite of the growing interest and success obtained using cultured-copepods, their use in marine aquaculture remains sporadic. Besides, mass culture of several marine copepods has been well established by several authors. However, the upscale of copepod cultures to commercial levels is still a challenge. The practice of using wild copepods from natural ponds which thus increases the risk of parasitic infections of most species has limited their application in aquaculture. The present paper thus emphasizes on recent research efforts focused on the use of chemical treatments and freeze-thawing methods to eradicate procercoids from copepods. Research efforts focused on copepod culture systems which subsequently improved and refined their culture in marine fish larviculture are also well discussed. Advances in the use of copepod eggs as potential source of nauplii for marine fish larvae with special emphasis on the viability, storage conditions and biochemical compositions of the copepod eggs are underscored. Additionally, recent advances in the biochemical compositions (protein, amino acids, pigments, and vitamins) of copepods, which has received relatively little attention compared to researches on the lipid and fatty acid compositions are well emphasized. Specific recommended areas for further research are also proffered.