Comparison of artificial and natural sea water as culture media for juvenile lobsters

Abstract

Fourth-stage and fifth-stage lobsters were placed in artificial or natural sea water and fed live adult brine shrimp for 90 days. Water quality parameters and temperature were monitored. Carapace length and body weight measurements were made at the end of the experimental periods. In trial one, growth was significantly better ( P < 0.05) in artificial sea water. In trial two, growth in artificial sea water was greater than in natural sea water, although the difference in growth was not significant. We conclude that artificial sea water is a satisfactory medium for culturing juvenile lobsters, and in some cases may result in better growth.