Development of diet and feeding regimes for Copper Rockfish larvae

Description

Copper Rockfish, Sebastes caurinus, are native to British Columbia and have excellent potential for aquaculture. Previous research (unpublished) has shown that diets with optimal protein:lipid ratios and high DHA content can provide the necessary nutrition to support the culture of Copper Rockfish. In addition, our research has shown that photoperiod manipulation can significantly improve growth performance. There are, however, hatchery production problems that need to be resolved before commercial rockfish aquaculture can be undertaken. In this regard, there is a need to establish reliable protocols for the rearing of larvae from parturition to the juvenile stage. The goal of this research project is to develop a feeding regime for Copper Rockfish larvae that will support good growth performance and survival up to the fry stage.

Program Name

Aquaculture Collaborative Research and Development Program (ACRDP)

Year(s)

2011 - 2013

Ecoregion(s)

Pacific: Vancouver Island West Coast

Principal Investigator(s)

Ian Forster
Email: Ian.Forster@dfo-mpo.gc.ca