Shellfish Breeding and Hatchery Management (2+1)

27.1.2 Role of Micro-algae in shrimp hatcheries

Successful operation of shrimp hatcheries largely depends on how effectively one handles the “Critical phase” of the delicate larval stages. This is why researchers all over the world are concentrating their efforts towards developing a right type of food, to be provided to the larvae at a right time, in a right manner Larvae of shell fishes such as shrimp or bivalves have restrictions in their feeds and the digestive ability.

The first and foremost problem in the feeding of the shellfish larvae is their mouth size and digetive processes. Most of the larvae will have very tiny mouth opening and therefore the feed must be lesser than the opening of the mouth.

The next issue will be their digestive enzymes in their alimentary canal. It is understood that their development is primitive and therefore with less complext enzymes secreted by the alimentary canal.

Considering above restrictions, the micro algae with their small and tiny size (<10 micron) and easily digestible composition are the most accepatable first feed for many shell fish hatcheries.