Protein, lipid, and energy metabolism in eleuthero-embryos and starving larvae of the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus (Burchell))
Changes in protein, lipid, and energy contents of developing Clarias gariepinus eggs and larvae are examined. The mean egg weight is 1.3 mg, with an average composition of 79.2% water, 20.7% protein, 5.6% lipid, and 2.1% ash. Hatching occurs at 52 physiological day degrees (PD°) and yolk is completely absorbed at 205 PD°. Exogenous feeding starts at 166 PD°, before complete yolk-sac absorption. From fertilization until the sampling point closest to complete yolk absorption ( 195.4 PD°), conversion efficiencies of yolk dry matter, protein, and lipid to body tissue are respectively 73.5%, 74.2%, and 47.4%. In the same period, protein and lipid contribute respectively 1.6 and 1.5 J/ind to the total energy expenditure.
Article from Marine Science Symposia Vol. 201 - "Mass rearing of juvenile fish". Symposium held in Bergen, 21-23 June 1993. To access the remaining articles please click on the keyword "MSS Vol. 201".
