D. Corazani, J.E. Illanes
Abstract:
The objective was to determine the growth rate of juvenile Haliotis discus hannai (Japanese abalone) and Haliotis rufescens (red abalone) with four different diets: three diets based on fresh algae (Lessonia trabeculata, Macrocystis integrifolia [MA], and Ulva rigida) and one artificial diet (PE). The results obtained for both species are not comparable because the initial size and densities used were different. The best growth rate for Japanese abalone was obtained with the artificial diet (PE), 0.24 and 0.82 %/day, and for red abalone, it was obtained with algae (MA), 0.15 and 0.57 %/day, for the length and weight, respectively. Factors affecting abalone growth are discussed with special reference to those factors influencing the rate of ingestion and the use of the diets.
(Univ Catolica Norte, Casilla 117, Coquimbo, Chile)