Development and population
dynamics of Tisbe biminiensis (Copepoda: Harpacticoida) reared on
different diets
C.S.C. Pinto, L.P. Souza-Santos, P.J.P. Santos-2001
Aquaculture, 198 (3-4): 253-267
Abstract:
The harpacticoid copepod Tisbe biminiensis was
reared under controlled laboratory conditions. In order to study the effects
of food on larval development and on population dynamics, three diets were
tested: the microalgae Nitzschia closterium, Tetraselmis gracilis
and a mixture of both algae. The life-cycle parameters were measured, and
the demographic variables such as generation time, net reproductive rate,
and exponential rate of increase were determined. Results showed that diet
affected development and fecundity. Larval development was delayed in
copepod fed T. gracilis. The mean number of nauplii per brood was
significantly greater in copepod fed the N. closterium diet than
those fed the other diets. Survival did not differ significantly between
treatments. The exponential rate of population increase (r) was
greater in copepod fed the N. closterium diet (0.49 day-1)
and lower in those fed the T. gracilis diet (0.35 day-1).
The results showed that although Tis. biminiensis seemed to be able
to develop and reproduce on a T. gracilis diet, the diatom N.
closterium promoted better results for this copepod in terms of
development, fecundity and populational growth rates. The short generation
time and high reproductive potential make the use of this copepod promising
as live food in aquaculture.
(Zoology Department, Universidade Federal de
Pernambuco, Cidade Universitária, CEP 50.670-901, Recife, Pernambuco,
Brazil, Fax: +55-81-3271-8227, e-mail of L.P. Souza-Santos: LPSS@npd.ufpe.br)