Studies on the presentation of artificial diets for rearing the larvae of Penaeus japonicus Bate

The preparation of microencapsulated diets for rearing the larvae of Penaeus japonicus is described. Once the correct microcapsule size and feeding concentration had been determined, experiments showed that survival rates of 50% to post-larva were possible. Comparative experiments using artificial diets in the form of free particulates indicate that survival rates may be even higher (66–68%) on these diets providing precautions are taken to avoid bacterial blooms. Further investigations revealed that microencapsulated semi-defined diets may be used to determine the nutritional requirements of Penaeus larvae.