Growth performance and feed utilization of Haliotis tuberculata coccinea (Reeve) juveniles from the Azores (north-eastern Atlantic Ocean): An assay of three mono algae diets

Abstract

ABSTRACTWe assessed the dietary value of available seaweeds (Ulva lactuca, Ulva intestinalis, and Sargassum vulgare) as food for juvenile abalone Haliotis tuberculata coccinea. During the 6 weeks that the experiment lasted, initial shell length and weight increased from 13.95 ± 0.32 mm to 15.30 ± 0.30 mm and from 0.39 ± 0.02 g to 0.47 ± 0.03 g. Ulva lactuca diet resulted in higher shell growth rate (58.47 ± 16.76 μm day−1), SGR (1.15 ± 0.47%.day−1), weight gain (65.5% ± 33.3), and PER (1.56 ± 0.31), possibly thanks to its higher crude protein content. Both green algae (U. lactuca, U. intestinalis) prove to support the growth of H. tuberculata coccinea. However, they might not be appropriate for an optimal intensive aquaculture production; further research should be conducted to find more efficient diets for juvenile abalone.