Spatio‐temporal analyses of marine predator diets from data‐rich and data‐limited systems

Accounting for variation in prey mortality and predator metabolic potential arising from spatial variation in consumption is an important task in ecology and resource management. However, there is no statistical method for processing stomach content data that accounts for fine‐scale spatio‐temporal structure while expanding individual stomach samples to population‐level estimates of predation. Therefore, we developed an approach that fits a spatio‐temporal model to both prey‐biomass‐per‐predator‐biomass data (i.e. the ratio of prey biomass in stomachs to predator weight) and predator biomass survey data, to predict “predator‐expanded‐stomach‐contents” (PESCs). PESC estimates can be used to visualize either the annual landscape of PESCs (spatio‐temporal variation), or can be aggregated across space to calculate annual variation in diet proportions (variation among prey items and among years). We demonstrated our approach in two contrasting scenarios: a data‐rich situation involving eastern Bering Sea (EBS) large‐size walleye pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus, Gadidae) for 1992–2015; and a data‐limited situation involving West Florida Shelf red grouper (Epinephelus morio, Epinephelidae) for 2011–2015. Large walleye pollock PESC was predicted to be higher in very warm years on the Middle Shelf of the EBS, where food is abundant. Red grouper PESC was variable in north‐western Florida waters, presumably due to spatio‐temporal variation in harmful algal bloom severity. Our approach can be employed to parameterize or validate diverse ecosystem models, and can serve to address many fundamental ecological questions, such as providing an improved understanding of how climate‐driven changes in spatial overlap between predator and prey distributions might influence predation pressure.     

Genotyping‐by‐sequencing for construction of a new genetic linkage map and QTL analysis of growth‐related traits in Pacific bluefin tuna

Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis) has high market value, but its wild populations have decreased in recent years. The broodstock of Pacific bluefin tuna that were hatched artificially and reared under aquaculture conditions is beginning to be used for production. The creation of broodstock with commercially valuable traits, such as rapid growth, is therefore of great interest. Genetic linkage map‐based identification of markers associated with quantitative trait loci (QTLs) facilitates marker‐assisted selection (MAS) breeding and allows efficient genetic improvement of broodstock. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐based genetic linkage map construction using the genotyping‐by‐sequencing method can expand the number of mapped markers and help identify growth‐related QTLs. In this study, we constructed sex‐specific maps for 24 linkage groups consisting of 677 SNP and 651 microsatellite markers. The total lengths of 93 progenies in the mapping population followed normal distribution, with an average length of 9.4 mm. We performed composite interval mapping in the mapping population. QTL analysis revealed one significant QTL in LG10 on the female linkage map. The genetic linkage map—the second such map generated for Pacific bluefin tuna—and the growth‐related QTLs detected in this study will be useful for tuna aquaculture MAS programs.     

Trade‐offs in triple‐bottom‐line outcomes when recovering fisheries

Almost all environmental management comes at an economic cost that may not be borne equitably by all stakeholders. Here, we investigate how heterogeneity in catch and profits among fishers influences the trade‐off among the triple‐bottom‐line objectives of recovering a fish population, maximizing its economic value and distributing restrictions equitably across fishers. As a case‐study, we examine management reform of an ecologically and economically important coral reef fishery operating within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Using a simulation model, we find that total profitability of the fishing industry is 40% lower if recovery plans are equitable when compared to the most economically efficient plan. However, efficient recovery plans were typically highly inequitable because they required some fishers to cease fishing. Equity was defined according to different norms, and the efficiency loss was greatest when catch losses were shared equally across fishers rather than in proportion to their historical catch. We then varied key social, economic and biological parameters to identify cases when equity and efficient recovery would trade‐off most strongly. Recovery plans could be both efficient and equitable when heterogeneity in fisher's catches and individual catch efficiencies was lower. If fishers were homogenous then equitable plans could have maximal economic efficiency. These results emphasize the importance of considering heterogeneity in individual fishers when designing recovery plans. Recovery plans that are inequitable may often fail to gain stakeholder support, so in fisheries with high heterogeneity we should temper our expectations for marked increases in profits.     

Effects of feeding rate on growth performance and nutrient partitioning of young‐of‐the‐year white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus)

A 10‐week growth trial was performed to evaluate the effects of feeding rate on growth performance, nutrient partitioning, and to determine the optimum feeding rate for young‐of‐the‐year white sturgeon. Three tanks with 30 fish per tank each were assigned to five feeding rates, 0.4–2.0% body weight per day (BW day^?1). Weight gain significantly (P < 0.05) increased with increasing feeding rate up to 1.2% BW day^?1. Feed efficiency exhibited an inverse relationship to weight gain. Hepatosomatic and gonadal‐fat‐body (GFB)‐somatic indices were significantly affected by feeding rate, and the lowest values were observed at 0.4% BW day^?1. The increased feeding rate significantly affected whole‐body and carcass lipid and moisture contents. Protein gain in the carcass, but not in the GFB, was significantly influenced by feeding rate. Lipid gain in the carcass and GFB was also significantly affected by feeding rate. Four regression models were tested for the estimation of optimum feeding rate, including one‐slope straight broken‐line, two‐slope straight broken‐line, quadratic broken‐line and quadratic models. Adjusted coefficient of correlation and corrected Akaike information criterion were used to compare model performance. The quadratic broken‐line model was chosen as the best based on the criteria. The estimated optimum feeding rate for young‐of‐the‐year white sturgeon (360 g) is 1.5% BW day^?1.     

A comparison of one‐slope straight broken‐line,two‐slope straight broken‐line,quadratic broken‐line and quadratic models to estimate an accurate optimum feeding rate for juvenile olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus)

Two feeding trials using different commercial feeds and different fish sizes were conducted to compare model performance of various regression models on the estimation of optimum feeding rates (OFR; % BW/day) for juvenile olive flounder. Six feeding rates ranging from 1% to 11% in trial I and another six feeding rates ranging from 1% to 6% in trial II were tested. Final body weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, condition factor, nutrient gains, and whole‐body lipid and energy contents were significantly influenced by the feeding rates in both trials. The overall responses shown in trial I were generally comparable to those observed in trial II. In trial I, the OFR was estimated to be 7.3%, 5.7%, 9.8% and 10.2% by the one‐slope straight broken‐line, two‐slope straight broken‐line, quadratic broken‐line and quadratic models, respectively. In trial II, the OFR was estimated to be 4.8%, 4.6%, 8% and 8% by the one‐slope broken‐line, two‐slope broken‐line, quadratic broken‐line and quadratic models, respectively. Based on the model selection criteria (R²_adj and AICc), the quadratic broken‐line model was selected as the best‐fit model in both trials. This model that describes the dose–response relationship best among the tested models can be recommended when determining an OFR.     

Evaluating the relationship between yearling walleye,Sander vitreus,electrofishing catch‐per‐unit‐effort and density in northern Wisconsin lakes

Recruitment declines of walleye, Sander vitreus (Mitchill), observed in some northern Wisconsin lakes have resulted in management actions to evaluate and rehabilitate populations. An effective index for estimating relative abundance of yearling walleye is required. The objectives herein were : (a) to evaluate the relationship between yearling walleye electrofishing CPUE and density in northern Wisconsin lakes; (b) to test for the influence of lake‐specific factors on electrofishing catchability of yearling walleye; and (c) to develop an index whereby electrofishing CPUE can be used to quantify yearling walleye relative abundance. Yearling density was significantly positively related to electrofishing CPUE on a long‐term dataset from Escanaba Lake as well as a dataset including several lakes combined. Electrofishing catchability of yearling walleye was negatively related to lake‐surface area but was not related to other lake‐specific variables. This index can provide an efficient method to continue monitoring natural recruitment and also to evaluate survival of stocked walleye.     

Poly‐beta‐hydroxybutyrate‐enriched Artemia sp. for giant tiger prawn Penaeus monodon larviculture

The beneficial effects of PHB as supplement for giant tiger prawn Penaeus monodon postlarvae using a short‐term enrichment strategy via Artemia were examined. The effects of co‐supplementing with a lipid emulsion were also evaluated to determine whether it yielded an additional benefit. Results on the average weight and larval development were not significantly different among postlarvae fed the different dietary treatments, indicating that PHB supplementation could not be used to stimulate growth in P. monodon postlarvae while such positive results have been reported in other aquaculture species. Nonetheless, significantly higher survival was obtained in postlarvae fed PHB‐enriched Artemia irrespective of lipid enrichment. In addition, PHB increased the survival of the postlarvae after exposure to a lethal dose of ammonia. Lipid supplementation nullified this effect. The cumulative mortality of postlarvae subjected to a sublethal concentration of ammonia for 24 h and subsequent exposure to pathogenic Vibrio campbelli showed that PHB but not lipids could effectively enhance the resistance of the postlarvae. Co‐supplementing lipids even significantly decreased this outcome. Our study indicates that PHB supplementation increases the quality of larval P. monodon and their chance of surviving under adverse environmental conditions. The short‐term co‐supplementation with lipid emulsion did not add to these effects.     

Environmental factors and megafauna spatio‐temporal co‐occurrence with purse‐seine fisheries

Tropical tuna purse‐seine fisheries spatially co‐occur with various megafauna species, such as whale sharks, dolphins and baleen whales in all oceans of the world. Here, we analyzed a 10‐year (2002–2011) dataset from logbooks of European tropical tuna purse‐seine vessels operating in the tropical Eastern Atlantic and Western Indian Oceans, with the aim of identifying the principle environmental variables under which such co‐occurrence appear. We applied a Delta‐model approach using Generalized Additive Models (GAM) and Boosted Regression Trees (BRT) models, accounting for spatial autocorrelation using a contiguity matrix based on a residuals autocovariate (RAC) approach. The variables that contributed most in the models were chlorophyll‐a concentration in the Atlantic Ocean, as well as depth and monsoon in the Indian Ocean. High co‐occurrence between whale sharks, baleen whales and tuna purse‐seine fisheries were mostly observed in productive areas during particular seasons. In light of the lack of a full coverage scientific observer on board program, the large, long‐term dataset obtained from logbooks of tuna purse‐seine vessels is highly important for identifying seasonal and spatial co‐occurrence between the distribution of fisheries and megafauna, and the underlying environmental variables. This study can help to design conservation management measures for megafauna species within the framework of spatial fishery management strategies.     

Analysis of retinol, 3‐hydroxyretinol and 3,4‐didehydroretinol in North American farm‐raised freshwater fish liver,muscle and feed

Vitamin A (VA) is an essential micronutrient in fish, vital for reproduction, vision and immunity. Freshwater fish species store and use VA in the form of retinol (ROL), as well as uncommon forms such as 3,4‐didehydroretinol (DROL) and 3‐hydroxyretinol (3ROL). We developed and validated an HPLC method capable of measuring ROL, DROL and 3ROL in the feed and tissues of North American freshwater fish, for which little information on retinoid concentrations is available. DROL and ROL were higher than expected in both fish feed and fish liver (at 9.5–29.6 mg kg^?1 DROL and 26.9–79.2 mg kg^?1 ROL for feed; and 19.8–548.8 μg g^?1 DROL and 10.4–128.8 μg g^?1 ROL for liver). Interestingly, DROL concentrations were lower than ROL in fish feed, but often substantially higher in fish liver. Concentrations of ROL and DROL were similar to each other in muscle. 3ROL was detected in fish liver only. To our knowledge, this is the first publication to measure DROL concentrations in North American farm‐raised fish and commercial fish feed. Monitoring of not only ROL, but DROL and 3ROL as well, may be advisable to better assess the VA content of fish feed and tissue.     

Anaesthetic efficacy of MS‐222 and AQUI‐S® in advanced size fry of rohu,Labeo rohita, (Hamilton‐Buchanan)

Anaesthetic agents are very useful for reducing the stress caused by handling, sorting, transportation, artificial reproduction, tagging, administration of vaccines and surgical procedures in fish. The efficacy of two anaesthetics: MS‐222 and AQUI‐S^® were tested on rohu, Labeo rohita advanced size fry. The lowest effective doses that produced induction in 3 min or less and recovery times 5 min or less and meet the most criteria of good anaesthetic characteristics were 125 mg L^?1 of MS‐222, and 30 mg L^?1 of AQUI‐S^® in rohu, Labeo rohita advanced size fry. Induction times were significantly decreased with increased in the concentrations of any of the two tested anaesthetic agents. The lowest doses suitable for transportation of rohu advanced size fry observed were: 10–15 mg L^?1 of MS‐222 and 2.5 mg L^?1 AQUI‐S^®. Both anaesthetics showed promising to be used as anaesthetics for handling and transportation in rohu (Labeo rohita) advanced fry.     

Fishmeal levels can be successfully reduced in white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) if supplemented with DL‐Methionine (DL‐Met) or DL‐Methionyl‐DL‐Methionine (Met‐Met)

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of methionine supplementation when reducing fishmeal levels in diets for white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). Tested diets consisted of a positive control with 260 g/kg fishmeal (D1), two negative controls with 100 g/kg fishmeal and no amino acid (AA) supplementation (D2) or supplemented with lysine but not methionine (D3), and four additional diets with 100g/kg fishmeal supplemented with increasing levels of DL‐Met (1.0, 2.0 or 3.0 g/kg) (D4, D5, D6) or Met‐Met (1.0 g/kg) (D7). Each diet was fed to four groups of 30 shrimp for 8 weeks at a daily rate of 70 g/kg body weight. Reduction in fishmeal from 260 g/kg down to 100 g/kg did not significantly affect survival rate, feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER) or protein retention efficiency (PR%) of white shrimp. However, growth performance (final body weight, FBW; weight gain, WG; specific growth rate, SGR) was reduced when dietary fishmeal level was reduced from 260 g/kg (D1) to 100 g/kg without methionine supplementation (D2). The growth performance (FBW, WG and SGR) of shrimp was significantly increased by supplementation of the 100 g/kg fishmeal diet with increasing levels of DL‐Met (p < .05). Same performance as positive control (D1) was achieved with diets containing 100 g/kg fishmeal and supplemented with 3.0 g/kg DL‐Met or 1.0 g/kg Met‐Met. The highest values of growth performance (FBW, WG and SGR) were found in shrimp fed D6 and D7 diets, which were significantly higher than those of shrimp fed D2 and D3 diets (p < .05) but without statistical differences with shrimp fed D1, D4 and D5 diets (p > .05). The highest values of whole‐body and muscle protein contents were found in shrimp fed D1 diet, which were significantly higher than those of shrimp fed all other diets (p < .05). The highest value of intestinal tract proteolytic enzyme activity was found in shrimp fed Met‐Met‐supplemented diet (D7) and followed by the positive control diet (D1) and 3 g/kg DL‐Met‐supplemented diet (D6) (p < .05). The highest values of apparent digestibility coefficients (ADCs) of dry matter and crude protein were found in Met‐Met‐supplemented diet (D7) and followed by the positive control diet (D1) (p < .05). Shrimp fed the D1 diet showed the highest value of total essential amino acid (EAA) and was significantly higher than shrimp fed D2–D3 (p < .05) but without significant difference with shrimp fed D4–D7 (p > .05). In conclusion, results showed that same performance can be achieved with diets containing 260 or 100 g/kg fishmeal supplemented with 3.0 g/kg DL‐Met or 1.0 g/kg Met‐Met. Moreover, supplementation of limiting methionine in low‐fishmeal diets seems to improve the digestive proteolytic activity, improving digestibility of dry matter and protein, and eventually to promote growth of juvenile white shrimp in fishmeal reduction diets.     

A meta‐analysis of haddock size‐selection data

Many jurisdictions have introduced management regimes prohibiting or limiting discarding, and a key objective of the European Union Common Fisheries Policy is the gradual elimination of discards. One way of reducing the catch of unwanted fish is to use more size‐selective gears. Gear‐based management options can best be explored using models that predict size selection across a wide range of variables related to gear design. Such a model is developed for haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) through a meta‐analysis of 21 trials of codend selection and 19 trials of the combined selection of the codend and a square mesh panel. Individual‐haul estimates of the 50% retention length (l₅₀) and the selection range (SR) are related to a set of explanatory variables through a structural model that describes the dual process of panel and codend selection. Codend l₅₀ and SR are positively related to codend mesh size and negatively related to the codend twine diameter. Codend l₅₀ is also negatively related to the number of open meshes around the codend circumference. Panel l₅₀ increases with panel mesh size. The panel contributes more to gear selection as it is moved closer to the codline. The panel is most effective between November and January and least between May and July, periods which broadly coincide with peak and poor haddock condition. The results are illustrated for a typical trawler targeting haddock in the Scottish whitefish sector, and the utility of the model for gear design and legislation is discussed.     

Interannual and spatial variation in the population genetic composition of young‐of‐the‐year Pacific ocean perch (Sebastes alutus) in the Gulf of Alaska

Little is known about the population structure of Alaskan rockfishes, including Pacific ocean perch (POP, Sebastes alutus), and how persistent and variable oceanographic features may influence their structures. Moreover, early life history information is sparse for many species. We used data from 14 microsatellite loci to characterize the genetic structure of young‐of‐the‐year Pacific ocean perch collected during 1998–2003 from the Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea. Broad‐scale geographic variation in genetic structure of the young‐of‐the‐year (F_ST = 0.005, P < 10^?4) had similarities to that observed in a previous adult study. The overall correlation between genetic and geographic distance (isolation by distance) was nearly identical to that observed in the adults. Fine‐scale geographic divergence was also observed and may be the result of oceanographic circulation features within the Gulf of Alaska. Interannual variation (between cohorts) at locations sampled in more than one year is consistent with variable oceanography and fine‐scale population structure rather than the influence of a sweepstakes effect. The similarities of the young‐of‐the‐year with the adults and the pattern of genetic divergence confirm that dispersal of Pacific ocean perch is limited in all life stages.     

In‐stream structure alters density‐dependent fish effects in stream ecosystems

The independent effects of in‐stream structure (ISS) and fish foraging on stream properties have been well documented, but few studies have explored the interactive effects of ISS and fishes on streams. Herein, we tested the independent and interactive effects of ISS and a generalist fish (Blacktail shiner, Cyprinella venusta) on suspended organic matter (SOM), benthic algae, invertebrate density and fish growth using experimental mesocosms. We found that Blacktail shiner foraging affected all of the ecosystem properties; however, in some cases, the fish effects differed between mesocosms with and without ISS. Specifically, mesocosms with ISS provided greater surface area for invertebrate colonisation and enhanced food resources for Blacktail shiner. As a result, benthic foraging by Blacktail shiner was reduced in these mesocosms. The reduced benthic foraging in turn enhanced benthic algae and benthic invertebrates via a bottom‐up, nutrient excretion pathway. The ISS‐dependent effects of fish on these stream properties, however, were only evident at low and intermediate fish densities (1 and 2 fish·m^?2 respectively). This was likely because at the highest fish density (4 fish·m^?2) intense fish foraging overrode any mediating effects of ISS. Furthermore, fish growth decreased with fish density because of intraspecific competition, but this negative effect on growth was reduced in mesocosms with ISS because of the increased forage base. However, the positive effect on fish growth was weak and only marginally significant. Our data suggest that fish‐mediated effects on streams are context dependent, changing with microhabitat availability (e.g. ISS) and density of the fish population.     

Identification of a mannose‐binding lectin‐like protein recognized by the anti‐CD25 antibody in haemocytes from Cherax quadricarinatus

The crustacean haemolymph contains three main cell populations; however, it is not clear which mechanisms participate in the regulation of cells related to innate immunity. This work aimed to identify potential interleukin‐like receptors that could regulate cellular responses in Cherax quadricarinatus. By histochemical analysis with murine anti‐CD25 staining (targeting the α‐chain of the IL‐2 receptor), we identified that this antibody recognizes cytoplasmic granules in semigranular and granular haemocytes. In haemocytes stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), increased fluorescence was observed in these cytoplasmic granules, whereas staining with a human IL‐2 antibody after stimulation with 1–10 ng/ml PMA revealed no overexpression of the receptor or oxidative burst in haemocytes. Two‐dimensional Western blot analysis of haemocyte lysates showed that anti‐CD25 identified a 27.4‐kDa protein with an isoelectric point (pI) of 7.7 and a 46‐kDa protein with a pI of 6.9. De novo sequencing of these proteins identified that they had 32% homology with a mannose‐binding lectin (MBL) from Pacifastacus leniusculus. Our results indicate that a mannose‐binding lectin‐like protein could exert a protective effect that prevents damage from other activated immune responses.     

Development and validation of a novel Taqman‐based real‐time RT‐PCR assay suitable for demonstrating freedom from viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus

Viral haemorrhagic septicaemia (VHS) is a serious disease in several fish species. VHS is caused by the rhabdovirus viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus (VHSV). To prevent spreading of the pathogen, it is important to use a fast, robust, sensitive and specific diagnostic tool to identify the infected fish. Traditional diagnosis based on isolation in cell culture followed by identification using, for example, ELISA is sensitive and specific but slow. By switching to RT‐PCR for surveillance and diagnosis of VHS the time needed before a correct diagnosis can be given will be considerably shortened and the need for maintaining expensive cell culture facilities reduced. Here we present the validation, according to OIE guidelines, of a sensitive and specific Taqman‐based real‐time RT‐PCR. The assay detects all isolates in a panel of 79 VHSV isolates covering all known genotypes and subtypes, with amplification efficiencies of approximately 100%. The analytical and diagnostic specificity of the real‐time RT‐PCR is close to 1, and the analytical and diagnostic sensitivity is comparable with traditional cell‐based methods. In conclusion, the presented real‐time RT‐PCR assay has the necessary qualities to be used as a VHSV surveillance tool on par with cell culture assays.     

Effect of dietary β‐1,3‐glucan on the immune response of Litopenaeus vannamei exposed to nitrite‐N

β‐1,3‐Glucan with 1.0 g kg^?1 was supplemented to a basal diet [control (C)] with different feeding schedules: permanently β‐1,3‐glucan diet (BG) and 14 days BG–14 days control diet (C + BG). Growth and immunological responses [respiratory burst (RB), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), lysozyme and total protein] in haemolymph, hepatopancreas and muscle of Litopenaeus vannamei were recorded after 84‐day feeding and exposure to nitrite‐N (20 mg L^?1) for 120 h. β‐1,3‐Glucan administration did not affect growth performance. However, as compared with control, elevated CAT and lysozyme activities were seen in haemolymph of both BG groups, while significantly higher activities of SOD, lysozyme and RB in hepatopancreas, and higher activities of CAT and lysozyme in muscle were only seen in C + BG group. After nitrite‐N stress, significantly higher haemolymph protein, and hepatopancreas activities of lysozyme and RB were observed in both BG groups, but significantly higher activities of haemolymph SOD was only seen in C + BG group. The mortality in groups BG and C + BG was significantly lower than that in group C, but C + BG group showed a trend of higher nitrite‐N resistance compared with BG group. Considering dietary cost and immunostimulatory effects, the feeding schedule with 14 days BG–14 days control diet is more recommended.     

Catch rate and at‐vessel mortality of circle hooks versus J‐hooks in pelagic longline fisheries: A global meta‐analysis

We conducted a meta‐analysis of literature reporting on the use of circle hooks and J‐hooks in pelagic longline fisheries. Our study included more data than previous meta‐analyses of the effects of hook type, due to both a larger number of relevant studies available in recent years and a more general modelling approach. Data from 42 empirical studies were analysed using a random effects model to compare the effects of circle hooks and J‐hooks on catch rate (43 species) and at‐vessel mortality (31 species) of target and bycatch species. Catch rates with circle hooks were greater for 11 species, including four tuna species, six shark species and one Istiophorid billfish. Catch rates on circle hooks were lower for seven species, including two Istiophorid billfishes and two species of sea turtle. At‐vessel mortality was significantly lower with circle hooks in 12 species, including three tuna species, three Istiophorid billfishes, swordfish (Xiphias gladius) and three shark species. No species had significantly greater at‐vessel mortality when captured with a circle hook rather than a J‐hook. While our general approach increased model variability compared to more detailed studies, results were consistent with trends identified in previous studies that compared the catch rates and at‐vessel mortality (between hook types) for a number of species. Our results suggest that circle hooks can be a promising tool to reduce mortality of some bycatch species in pelagic longline fisheries, although the effects depend on the species and the metric (catch rate or at‐vessel mortality), emphasizing the need for fishery‐specific data in conservation and management decisions.     

Effects of marine protein‐, marine oil‐ and marine‐free diets on the growth performance and innate immune responses of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar,L.) post‐smolts

Atlantic salmon post‐smolts of an average of 940 g were fed six diets including two marine‐based commercial diets one with partial inclusion of vegetable proteins (VPs) and oils (VOs) (2011/12 EU standards) (MB) and a second with partial inclusion of VPs, land animal‐by‐product (ABP) proteins and VOs (non‐EU standards) (MBABP), a fully vegetable protein (VP) diet; a fully algal and VOs (VO) diet; a fishery‐free vegetable‐based (VP/VO) diet; and a fishery‐free diet with a mix of VPs and ABP proteins and a mix of algal and vegetable oils (MFABP). Growth was assessed at Days 104 and 175, whereas fillet proximate composition, haematology and innate immune responses were assessed upon termination. Overall, MB salmon was the best performing group for the full period in terms of feed intake and overall weight gain. MB and VP salmon exhibited the highest FCRs compared to the other groups, while VP salmon exhibited the highest condition factor (K) and VO salmon the lowest K compared to the other groups. Fillet proximate composition did not present differences among the six groups. MB salmon demonstrated the highest plasma lysozyme activity compared to the other groups while MFABP, VP and VP/VO salmon demonstrated higher plasma anti‐protease activity in contrast to MB salmon. The dietary groups did not present differences in plasma protein, total IgM or natural haemolytic activity while unaltered head kidney macrophage respiratory burst activity was also observed. Overall, diets free from marine proteins or oils and/or both were satisfactorily utilized by salmon without compromising their immune capacity, although longer adaptation periods are required.