The effect of tank color and rotifer density on rotifer ingestion, growth and survival of milkfish (Chanos chanos) larvae

Abstract

The effect of tank color on rotifer ingestion, early growth and survival of milkfish larvae was assessed. The larvae were stocked at 30/L in 200-L fiberglass tanks coated black or unpainted (tan). Larvae were fed rotifers at densities of 5, 10, and 15/ml. Growth and survival were higher in black tanks than in tan tanks. Rotifers ingested were also higher in larvae reared in black tanks. In black tanks, the survival of the larvae was enhanced at high rotifer density of 15/ml. Rotifer ingestion and growth of larvae improved at higher feeding levels.