Effects of light intensity and photoperiod on the growth performance of juvenile Murray cods (Maccullochella peelii) in recirculating aquaculture system (RAS)

Abstract

Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii) is a freshwater percichthyid fish that has a high market value and potential for culture in recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs). Illumination is an important environmental factor that affects the growth and physiological condition of fishes. A comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the light factors and the growth, nutrient composition and stress response of juvenile Murray cod in RAS is important to achieve satisfactory theoretical and practical aquaculture performance. Juvenile Murray cod were randomly assigned to nine RAS tanks with a volume of 1.5 m3, with each tank containing 120 fishes (3.5 ± 0.5g). The fish were cultured for 120 days under different light intensities (1200, 2400, and 3600 lx) and photoperiods (12L: 12D, 18L: 6D and 24L: 0D). The results showed that the final weight and feed conversion ratio of Murray cod under a light intensity of 1200 lx were significantly better than those under 3600 lx (P < 0.05). The serum total protein and globulin were higher at the light intensity of 1200lx, compared to other light intensities. The blood urea nitrogen level improved with increasing light intensity at LD12:12 and LD18:6 of photoperiod, as well as the superoxide dismutase level improved significantly from LD18:6 to LD24:0 of photoperiod. The findings indicated that the optimal light condition to enhance growth at juvenile stage is 1200 lx of the light intensity and LD18:6 of the photoperiod.