Growth of early juvenile winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus Walbaum)

Metamorphosis is a critical developmental stage in marine fish species, but mortalities are also elevated at the settling phase. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of different rearing systems and larval diets on survival, general condition and pigmentation of newly settled winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus) juveniles. At settlement, winter flounder juveniles were reared in two different types of tanks (plankton kreisel and rectangular raceway). The early juveniles were followed for 1 month and their condition was evaluated using biochemical indices. Juveniles did not show signs of fin rot and pigmentation was well developed, but they had different RNA/DNA ratios. This study highlights the fact that rearing conditions at the onset of the juvenile stage may be critical for successful juvenile production.