Optimization of salinity levels with respect to survival, reproductive performance and population dynamics for the culture of cyclopoid copepod Apocyclops sp.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17017/j.fish.1391Keywords:
Apocyclops, copepod, growth, live food, population composition, salinityAbstract
Apocyclops sp. is a widely used cyclopoid copepod in finfish and shellfish larviculture because of its superior nutritional value and suitable size for larval feeding. However, the optimal salinity for its mass culture remains inadequately defined. This study evaluated the effects of salinity on the survival, growth, reproduction, and population dynamics of Apocyclops sp. Adult and naupliar survival were first assessed after abrupt exposure to salinities ranging from 5 to 40 ppt, with survival recorded after 24 hr. Reproductive and population parameters were subsequently evaluated at 20, 25, 30, and 35 ppt to identify the most suitable culture salinity. Results showed that 25 ppt supported the highest adult (93.33±5.77%) and naupliar survival (84.17±3.55%). Reproductive performance was also greatest at 25 ppt, with the highest clutch size (15.17±1.17 eggs female⁻¹) and nauplii production (14.00±1.41 female⁻¹), while egg diameter and hatching rate remained unaffected by salinity. Maximum population density (6291.67±1120.36 individuals L⁻¹ on day 5) and significantly higher (p < 0.05) growth rate were also recorded at 25 ppt. Stage composition analysis indicated that 25 ppt maintained a balanced distribution of developmental stages, supporting continuous recruitment. Although the proportions of nauplii and ovigerous females were highest at 30 ppt, overall culture performance was superior at 25 ppt. These findings identify 25 ppt as the optimal salinity for hatchery-scale culture of Apocyclops sp., providing a practical guideline for its large-scale production as a live feed in marine aquaculture.
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