Small scale rotifer production for larval fish culture

Authors: Ludwig, Gerald; Pfeiffer, Tim

Submitted to: Book of Abstracts Aquaculture America
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/15/2006
Publication Date: 2/26/2007
Citation: Ludwig, G.M., Pfeiffer, T.J. 2007. Small scale rotifer production for larval fish culture [abstract]. Book of Abstracts Aquaculture America. p. 556.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Tank culture of many fish species requires the availability of tiny prey. Most prominent of those prey are rotifers, principally the brackish water Brachionus plicatilis. Previously culture of this rotifer required that live algae also be cultured, a time, space, and money consuming endeavor with cultures that were frequently unstable. Maximum rotifer densities achieved were usually below 500/ml. Recent innovations have resulted in greatly increased culture density, elevated culture stability and reduced space requirements. Concentrated algae pastes of several varieties are now available in the marketplace, alleviating the need for separate algae cultures and their attendant labor, water, space, equipment and operating costs. Concentrated algae also reduces rotifer culture dilution during feeding and less risk of pH elevation. Lower pH reduces rotifer mortality from unionized ammonia presence. Products containing sodium hydroxymethanesulfonate (e.g. Chloram-X) also neutralize ammonia. Peristaltic pumps and timers allow for around-the-clock feeding. Supplying pure oxygen greatly increases the potential for high density culture. Fecal and other particulate matter removal is facilitated by use of filter materials. Rotifer concentrations of 4000/ml and over are achievable with stable production rates of 1500 rotifers/ml are expected. With this system, in conjunction with Artemia cultures, has enabled us to produce in ten 100L tanks the equivalent of a half acre of pond production of sunshine bass.