Algae as first food for cod larvae (Gadus morhua L.): experimental data and field observations on larvae reared in mesocosms

Growth and survival rates of cod larvae reared in mesocosms are higher during larval stages than cod larvae reared on live food in laboratory systems. The appearance of green material in the gut of mesocosm larvae shortly after their release is a major difference between those reared in extensive and intensive systems. It has been suggested that the green material is algae, but the mechanism behind its introduction into the larval gut remains unclear.

This article is part of Marine Science Symposia Volume 192 - "The ecology and management aspects of extensive mariculture". To access other articles from this volume, please use the link to the volume on the upper right hand side.