Temperature Modulation of Growth and Physiology of Juvenile Guadalupe Bass

Abstract

AbstractFingerling Guadalupe Bass Micropterus treculii were cultured in 18, 21, 24, 27, or 30°C water for 6 weeks. Temperature affected the growth of the Guadalupe Bass when it was measured by increases in TL but not when measured by increase in mass. The optimal temperature for growth of Guadalupe Bass was 27–28°C. Condition factor increased linearly with temperature, indicating that the fish were plumper at warmer temperatures. The mean hematocrit was 37 and not significantly affected by temperature, although a trend of increasing hematocrit with increasing temperature was apparent. The liver index varied significantly with temperature, and the maximum index was at 24°C. The results of this study provide basic thermal information and some base line hematological values for hatchery production and management of Guadalupe Bass.