Fish Growth Research Articles

Identification of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Differentially Expressed Genes Favoring Soybean Meal Tolerance in Higher-Growth Zebrafish (Danio rerio).

Genetic variability within the same fish species could confer soybean meal (SBM) tolerance in some individuals, thus favoring growth. This study investigates the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in differentially expressed genes (DEGs) favoring SBM tolerance in higher-growth zebrafish (Danio rerio). In a previous work, nineteen families of zebrafish were fed a fish meal diet (100FM control diet) or SBM-based diets supplemented with saponin (50SBM + 2SPN-experimental diet), from juvenile to adult stages. Individuals were selected from families with a genotype-by-environment interaction higher (170 ± 18mg) or lower (76 ± 10mg) weight gain on 50SBM + 2SPN in relation to 100FM. Intestinal transcriptomic analysis using RNA-seq revealed six hundred and sixty-five differentially expressed genes in higher-growth fish fed 50SBM + 2SPN diet. In this work, using these results, 47 SNPs in DEGs were selected. These SNPs were genotyped by Sequenom in 340 zebrafish that were fed with a 50SBM + 2SPN diet or with 100FM diet. Marker-trait analysis revealed 4 SNPs associated with growth in 3 immunity-related genes (aif1l, arid3c, and cst14b.2) in response to the 50SBM + 2SPN diet (p-value < 0.05). Two SNPs belonging to aif1l y arid3c produce a positive (+19mg) and negative (-26mg) effect on fish growth, respectively. These SNPs can be used as markers to improve the early selection of tolerant fish to SBM diet or other plant-based diets. These genes can be used as biomarkers to identify SNPs in commercial fish, thus contributing to the aquaculture sustainability.

Evaluation of Gamma Aminobutyric Acid and Sodium Butyrate in Juvenile Red Seabream (Pagrus major) Diets Containing Graded Levels of Fish Meal and Soy Protein Concentrate.

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the supplementary effects of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) and sodium butyrate (SB) when a graded level of fish meal (FM) was replaced with soy protein concentrate (SPC) in diets for juvenile red seabream (Pagrus major). A control diet was designed to contain 60% FM (F60). Two other diets were formulated by reducing FM levels to 40% and 20% with SPC (F40 and F20). Six more diets were formulated by adding 0.02% GABA or 0.2% SB to each F60, F40 and F20 diets (F60G, F60S, F40G, F40S, F20G and F20S). Each diet was randomly assigned to a triplicate group of fish (5.52 g/fish) and provided for eight weeks. Final body weight, weight gain and specific growth rate of fish fed F60G, F60S, F40G and F40S diets were comparable and significantly higher (p < 0.05) than other groups. The growth of fish fed SB-containing diets was significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared to fish fed the respective control diets. The feed efficiency and protein efficiency ratios were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the fish fed all diets containing 60% and 40% FM compared to F20 and F20G groups. The F40S diet resulted in the highest feed utilization values. The F20S group exhibited significantly higher (p < 0.05) feed utilization than the F20 and F20G groups. Serum lysozyme activity was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in fish fed the GABA- and SB-containing diets compared to the F20 group. The F60S group exhibited the highest lysozyme activity which was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in the F20 and F40 groups. Therefore, the growth performance, feed utilization and innate immunity of red seabream can be enhanced by dietary supplementation with GABA or SB in low-FM diets containing SPC. The FM level in the juvenile red seabream diet can be reduced to 40% with SPC and GABA or SB while maintaining performance better than a diet containing 60% FM.

Can photoperiod improve growth performance and antioxidant responses of pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) reared in recirculation aquaculture systems?

The present study investigated the best photoperiod for culturing pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) in recirculation aquaculture systems (RAS) based on its growth performance and hematological and oxidative stress responses. Juveniles (∼ 5g) were subjected to five treatments (in triplicate): 24L (light):0D (dark), 15L: 09D, 12L:12D, 9L:15D, and 0L:24D for 45 days. A total of 225 pacu individuals were randomly distributed among 15 tanks of 210L (n = 15 per tank). Zootechnical, hematological (glucose, lactate, hematocrit, and hemoglobin), and antioxidant and oxidative stress parameters (glutathione S-transferase (GST), total antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP), and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were analyzed. The zootechnical parameters (e.g., weight gain, Fulton's condition factor, and specific growth rate) were better and worse with 9L:15D and 24L:0D photoperiods, respectively. The hepatosomatic index was higher and lower in the 0L:24D and 9L:15D photoperiods. Blood lactate levels and antioxidant and oxidative stress responses were increased in the longest photoperiods (15L:9D and 24L:0D). In contrast, the treatments that showed lower oxidative damage (liver, gills, brain, and muscle) were 9L:15D and 12L:12D. In conclusion, manipulating artificial light is one way to improve fish growth and health, where the best photoperiod for pacu farming in RAS is 9L:15D.

Heavy Metal Concentrations in Water, Sediment, and Fish Species in Chashma Barrage, Indus River: A Comprehensive Health Risk Assessment.

The increasing levels of heavy metals in aquatic environments, driven by human activities, pose a critical threat to ecosystems' overall health and sustainability. This study investigates the bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd) in water, sediment, and three fish species (Catla catla, Labeo rohita, Cirrhinus mrigala) of different feeding zones within Chashma Barrage, located in the Mianwali district of Punjab, Pakistan, on the Indus River. A comprehensive analysis, including an assessment of associated human health risks, was conducted. Thirty samples from all three sites for each fish species, with an average body weight of 160 ± 32g, were collected from Chashma Barrage. Water quality parameters indicated suitability for fish growth and health. Heavy metal concentrations were determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. Results indicated elevated levels of Cd, Cr, and Cu in sediment and Pb and Cd in water, surpassing WHO standard limits. Among the fish species, bottom feeder (C. mrigala) exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher heavy metal levels in its tissues (gills, liver, and muscle) compared to column feeder (L. rohita) and surface feeder (C. catla). Liver tissues across all species showed higher heavy metal bioaccumulation, followed by gills. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed strong correlations among heavy metals in sediment, gills, muscle, and water in every fish species. However, the vector direction suggests that Cr was not correlated with other heavy metals in the system, indicating a different source. The human health risk analysis revealed lower EDI, THQ, and HI values (< 1) for the fish species, indicating no adverse health effects for the exposed population. The study emphasizes the bioaccumulation differences among fish species, underscoring the higher heavy metal concentrations in bottom feeder fish within Chashma Barrage.

Re-Circulatory Aquaculture Systems: A Pathway to Sustainable Fish Farming

Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) represent a transformative approach to sustainable fish farming that offers a viable solution to meet the growing global demand for seafood while minimizing environmental impact. These closed-loop systems recirculate and reuse water, reducing water consumption by up to 99% compared to traditional aquaculture methods. RAS also mitigate the risk of disease transmission, escapement, and pollution by isolating farmed fish from natural populations and the surrounding environment. Technologically advanced RAS employ mechanical filtration, biological filtration, and disinfection processes to maintain optimal water quality for fish growth. This high level of control allows for the farming of a wide range of species, including predatory finfish, in locations far from coastal areas. Furthermore, the integration of aquaponics in RAS enables the production of high-quality vegetables and herbs using the nutrient-rich wastewater, creating a sustainable closed-loop system. Despite the higher initial investment required, RAS have demonstrated consistent profitability and the potential for significant returns. By promoting "in-sourcing" and creating local jobs, RAS can contribute to the economic development of communities while reducing the carbon footprint associated with international seafood trade. As the aquaculture industry continues to evolve, RAS are poised to play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term sustainability of fish farming. By combining technological advancements with environmental stewardship, RAS offer a promising pathway towards meeting the world's growing demand for seafood while preserving the health of our aquatic ecosystems.

Effects of selenomethionine on the growth, oxidative potential, digestive enzyme activity, and immune status of juvenile sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus)

Abstract In a 56-day experiment, the effects of selenium-enriched yeast (SeY) on the growth, enzymatic activity of the gastrointestinal tract, oxidative stress parameters, and selected immunological parameters of sterlet, Acipenser ruthenus (L.), were analyzed. The concentration of selenomethionine (SeMet) from SeY in the feed was 0 mg kg−1 (C), 0.7 mg kg−1 feed (S1), 1.4 mg kg−1 feed (S2), and 2.1 mg kg−1 feed (S3). Statistically significant differences were found in the final fish body weight between the control and groups S1 and S3. A significant increase in lipase activity was found in the initial section of the small intestine of fish from group S3. The highest activity of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase was recorded in the liver of fish from group S2. Analyses of non-specific humoral response parameters showed an increase in ceruloplasmin activity in group S1. The lowest active dose of SeMet derived from yeast tested in this study that stimulated humoral immunity and fish growth was 0.7 mg kg−1 feed (S1).

Comparing standard‐ and reduced‐size passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags for monitoring juvenile wild spring Chinook Salmon

AbstractObjectivesAnnual migration monitoring can help to discern patterns and environmental factors that impact growth, survival, and movement timing in small fish. Mark–recapture methods form the basis for such monitoring, and the standard 12‐mm passive integrated transponder (PIT) tag has emerged as an essential tool for studies of juvenile salmonids. A smaller, 9‐mm PIT tag now provides the potential to conduct mark–recapture studies on smaller fish. We evaluated relative performance of the 9‐mm tag, which is similar in design to its 12‐mm predecessor.MethodsFor this comparison, we tagged and released approximately 8400 wild spring Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha parr in Valley Creek, Idaho, from 2011 to 2013. Tag‐size cohorts were of similar average body size and were tagged in equal numbers. We estimated survival and detection probability for each cohort over two river segments.ResultsIn both segments, survival varied among years, but we observed no significant differences between tag‐size groups. At Valley Creek, average detection rates of fish with 9‐mm tags were a little less than one‐half the rates of fish with 12‐mm tags and were significantly lower in all 3 years. At Lower Granite Dam, detection rates were again lower for 9‐mm tags, but the differences were much smaller (3%–12%) and were not statistically significant.ConclusionWe found that 9‐mm tags can be as effective as 12‐mm tags and may allow for better inference to smaller (&lt;55‐mm) non‐tagged fish. However, the lower detection rates of the 9‐mm tags could lead to less precise estimates, and site‐specific detection rates should be considered for studies that rely on these tags.

Combinations of β-Carotene and Taurine Enhanced Growth and Eye Development of the Golden Rabbit Fish S. guttatus

Combinations of β-Carotene and Taurine Enhanced Growth and Eye Development of the Golden Rabbit Fish S. guttatus

Influence of Soil Macro- and Microelements on the Growth and Development of Fish

Influence of Soil Macro- and Microelements on the Growth and Development of Fish

The Impact of Microalgae-Based Diet Enriched Mesocyclopsaspericornis Copepod on the Growth Performance and Biochemical Assessment of Ornamental Fish (Brachydanio rerio)

The cultivation of emerging species in aquaculture and the aquarium industry presents challenges, particularly during the sensitive larval stage, which often has a small mouth. Developing appropriate early feeding protocols is crucial. Copepods have gained recognition as a viable alternative to traditional live fish feeds, as they are natural prey for many fish species and do not necessarily require additional nutritional enrichment. This study aimed to assess the effect of enriching Mesocyclopsaspericornis with different microalgae (Spirulina, Azolla, Chlorella) when fed to Brachydanio rerio, focusing on growth, survival, and biochemical performance of the ornamental fish. Results revealed that Brachydanio rerio exhibited the highest specific growth rate (SGR) when fed with copepods enriched with Spirulina (1.49±0.022), and the highest survival rate was observed when copepods were enriched with Spirulina (93.4±2.549). Further analysis of the biochemical composition of enriched copepods indicated that Chlorella resulted in the highest protein and carbohydrate content, along with lower lipid content compared to other enrichment groups. This suggests that microalgae, particularly Spirulina and Chlorella can serve as a potential feed to enhance the nutritional status of copepods and support the early stages of fish development.

Feeding rates affect growth, metabolism and oxidative status of Nile tilapia rearing in a biofloc system.

The biofloc system is a biotechnology available for fish farming. Feeding rate is an important factor as it influences production costs and fish performance. The aim og this study was to evaluate the effects of feeding rates (2, 4, 6 and 8%) on growth, body composition, biochemical parameters and thiobarbituric acid-reactive-substances in tilapia. An experiment was conducted for 4 weeks, using 144 tilapias juvenile (initial weight = 12.06 ± 0.16g), in triplicate for feeding rate tested. Fish fed three times a day, with comercial extrude diet (36%CP). After the end of the experiment, measurements were carried out and samples were collected for analysis. The feeding rate of 6% increased fish growth parameters, not differing between 4 and 8%. Since apparent feed conversion increased proportionally to increase in feed supply. Body protein of fish was higher at 8% feeding rate and the dry matter raised according to the rate. The feeding rates affected the body lipids in fish. Fish that fed 6% and 8% showed more lipid in the whole body. The biochemical parameters presented a lower amount of protein, amino acids, and hepatic glucose when employing a feed rate of 6%. Higher levels of ammonia were observed in the muscle of fish reared at 4% of feeding rate. There was no difference in amino acids and ammonia regarding the gills. Fish reared at lower feeding rates (2% and 4%) showed better oxidative parameters, which may be due to the consumption of the biofloc phenolic compounds. We recommend the use of a 4% feeding rate for juvenile tilapia in a Biofloc Technology system.

Earthy/musty odour bioaccumulation in Plecoglossus altivelis grown in a land-based aquaculture fed by reclaimed secondary effluent in wastewater treatment plant

ABSTRACT Reclaimed wastewater (RWW) has been used globally for centuries, though its application in aquaculture is less extensive. Limited study has addressed impacts of RWW-derived volatile odour compounds (VOCs), such as 2,4,6-trichloroanisole (TCA), 2-methylisoborneol (MIB), and geosmin (GSM), on fish quality. This study aims to (1) assess the feasibility of reusing secondary effluent from a municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) for Plecoglossus altivelis aquaculture in a land-based flow-through system and (2) evaluate the sensory effects of selected VOCs on fish quality. Results showed that increased temperature and ammonia levels in summer RWW negatively affected fish growth, while autumn RWW did not. Heavy metals in fish did not cause health issues. TCA, MIB, and GSM concentrations in fish tissues were 4.7–5.7, 0.3–40.5, and 1.1–1.9 mg kg−1, respectively. TCA emerged as the most concerning odorant, with higher relative odour intensity than MIB and GSM in RWW-cultured fish, regardless of seasonal change. This study is the first to report on a self-constructed aquaculture system using RWW at a WWTP, recommending effective VOC and ammonia removal for sustainable RWW use in aquaculture. Additionally, the study highlighted TCA's impact as an anthropogenic indicator in aquatic environments amid increasing WWTP prevalence in developed cities.

Pertumbuhan dan Mortalitas Ikan Kuro (Eleutheronema tetradactylum) yang Didaratkan di Pelabuhan Perikanan Nusantara Kabupaten Merauke

This research aimed to determine the size structure, length-weight relationship, growth, and mortality of kuro fish (Eleutheronema tetradactylum) that landed on Nusantara Fishery Harbour, Merauke District. The samples were taken off in August-October 2022 at Nusantara Fishery Harbour, Merauke District. The metusedsing was a purposive sampling method. The measured data was the total length and weight body of kuro fish. The size structure and length-weight relationship of kuro fish were analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Meanwhile, the growth and mortality were analyzed using the FISAT II application. The result analysis shows that the range of E. tetradactylum total length landed on Nusantara Fishery Harbour is 430 – 1030 mm with a weight range of 92 – 3613 grams. The length-weight relationship of E. tetradactylum has the allometric negative growth pattern with equation W = 0,0016L2,1167 in August, W = 0,0017L2,1134 in September, and W = 0,0017L2,1077 in October. The analysis of E. tetradactylum’s growth parameter shows the value L∞ = 1053 mm, K = 0,51/year, and t₀ = -0,1201 year. The result mortality analysis of E. tetradactylum shows the total mortality (Z) was 0,78/ year, natural mortality was 0,43/year, fishing mortality (F) was 0,35/year, and exploitation rate was 0,45/year.

Community Structure of Fishes at Coral Reef Ecosystem in Pandanan Beach, Northern Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara

One of the most abundant kinds of organism that lived in coral reef ecosystem are fish. Fish rely on coral reefs for shelter, food, and breeding grounds. Lombok is one of the islands that have many hotspots of coral reef ecosystem, one of which is at Pandanan Beach. The precense of fish benefits in both tourism and local economy, however the data about reef fish that lived in Pandanan waters are less known. This research aimed to assess the community structure of fish species in coral reef ecosystem at Pandanan Beach. The method that was used for sampling were UVC (Underwater Visual Census) with BIT (Belt Intercept Transect) technique at three different stations. The results showed 554 individuals which consist of 34 species from 12 families had been identified. The community structure of fish in the three stations showed the moderate level of diversity, stable evenness index with low dominance, and density value of 0,73. Environmental parameters measurement indicate Pandanan waters are suitable for fish growth and survival.

EFEK PENAMBAHAN BUBUK TEMULAWAK (Curcuma xanthorrhiza ) PADA PAKAN BUATAN TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN IKAN NILA (Oreochromis niloticus)

This research aims to determine the effect of adding ginger powder to artificial feed on the growth of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). This research was carried out from May to June 2023 for 60 days located in Margasakti Village, Padang Jaya District. The test fish used were tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) with a size of 10-12 cm/head. The design used was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), which consisted of 4 treatments with 6 repetitions to obtain 24 experimental units. treatment 1 (P1): without adding ginger powder, treatment 2 (P2): 1.5 gram ginger powder, treatment 3 (P3): 1.8 gram ginger powder, treatment 4 (P4): 2.1 gram ginger powder. The data obtained was tested by analysis of variance at the 5% and 1% levels, while to determine the best effect of adding ginger powder, a 5% BNT (Least Significant Difference) further test was carried out. The parameters observed were fish growth, which included absolute length and weight, feed conversion, feed efficiency and survival of the test fish. The results of the research showed that the addition of ginger powder to the growth of tilapia had a very significant effect on the growth in absolute length, absolute weight, feed conversion and feed efficiency. The addition of good ginger powder is the addition of 1.8 grams of ginger powder and the addition of 2.1 grams of ginger powder with survival reaching 100%. In cultivation development, you can use the addition of 1.8 grams of ginger powder.

A Theoretical Comparison of Alternative Male Mating Strategies in Cephalopods and Fishes.

We used computer simulations of growth, mating and death of cephalopods and fishes to explore the effect of different life-history strategies on the relative prevalence of alternative male mating strategies. Specifically, we investigated the consequences of single or multiple matings per lifetime, mating strategy switching, cannibalism, resource stochasticity, and altruism towards relatives. We found that a combination of single (semelparous) matings, cannibalism and an absence of mating strategy changes in one lifetime led to a more strictly partitioned parameter space, with a reduced region where the two mating strategies co-exist in similar numbers. Explicitly including Hamilton's rule in simulations of the social system of a Cichlid led to an increase of dominant males, at the expense of both sneakers and dwarf males ("super-sneakers"). Our predictions provide general bounds on the viable ratios of alternative male mating strategies with different life-histories, and under possibly rapidly changing ecological situations.

Correction: Effects of invasive bigheaded carp and environmental factors on larval fish growth

Correction: Effects of invasive bigheaded carp and environmental factors on larval fish growth

Marine heatwaves alter the nursery function of coastal habitats for juvenile Gulf of Alaska Pacific cod

Marine Heatwaves (MHWs) can directly influence survival of marine fishes, particularly for early life stages, including age-0 juveniles during their residence in coastal nursery habitats. However, the ability of nurseries to support high fish densities, optimize foraging and growth, and protect against predators may be altered during MHWs. Gulf of Alaska Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) larval, juvenile, and adult abundances declined dramatically following MHW events in 2014–2016 and 2019. To evaluate coastal nursery function during MHWs, we compared diet composition, recent growth, size, condition, and abundance of age-0 juveniles throughout their first summer before, during, and between MHWs. Diet shifted to larger prey during MHWs, particularly mysids, but diet did not appear to influence growth. We observed faster growth rates during MHWs, yet even when accounting for growth, we could not explain the higher body sizes observed in August during MHWs. Together with lower abundance and the near absence of small fish in the nursery by August during MHWs, these patterns highlight potential for size-selection and a reduced ability of nursery habitats to buffer against environmental variability during MHWs, with only a small number of large “super survivors” persisting through the summer.

A hierarchical model of persistent and transient growth variation applied to Lake Superior lake trout

Variability in individual fish growth both within and among populations can interact with mortality to affect variation in size-at-age and other critical features of populations. Herein, we developed and applied mixed-effects, hierarchical growth models to back-calculated length-at-age data from six lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) populations in Lake Superior to quantify how growth variation was attributable to persistent sources within and among populations and transient (short-term and not consistent over time for an individual) sources. Persistent variation in growth among individuals explained more variability in length-at-age than transient variation, and most of this variation was within populations rather than among populations. Simulations showed that the modeling approach could robustly estimate most growth function parameters, even with mismatches between true and assumed among-population covariation, although a higher number of populations enabled better estimation of certain population-level parameters. An implicit assumption to our interpretation was that lake trout populations in Lake Superior had not experienced substantial size-selective mortality, so their length-at-age patterns largely reflected growth variation rather than size-selective mortality. This assumption should be tested when interpreting future applications of this growth modeling approach.

Mengoptimalkan Formulasi Pakan Ikan: Meningkatkan Kandungan Protein Dengan Media Ikan ‘Sapu-Sapu’ Sebagai Bahan Baku Industri Perikanan

The decrease in production and the rise in the price of protein feed have increased costs and financial pressure on fish farmers. Data from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries shows production costs have risen by 2.13%. This research aims to provide an alternative to high-protein feed by using suckermouth catfish as an ingredient. The study uses a Research and Development approach with a 4-D model (define, design, develop, disseminate). The sample includes two catfish per participant. Data was collected through monitoring, questionnaires, and expert reviews, using a four-point Likert scale. Results indicate 60% of volunteers observed increased fish growth, 66.7% stated fish health was very good, and 53.3% reported increased feed consumption. However, 66.7% of volunteers rated water quality as poor. Despite this, 60% rated the physical and nutritional quality of the alternative feed as good, and 53.3% rated the benefits and cost as very good. In conclusion, using suckermouth catfish as an alternative feed ingredient can reduce feed costs and improve catfish growth and health, though water quality management needs improvement. These findings offer hope for fish farmers to tackle rising feed prices with a more affordable and sustainable solution.