Growth modelling based on different feeding protocols of turbot (Psetta maxima)

Abstract

Turbot (Psetta maxima) is a commercially valuable species in aquaculture, and the new strategies and models for growth are essential for rapid growth in aquaculture operations. Hence, the objectives of this study were to assess the best feeding protocol and growth model for turbot in culture conditions. Over a period of 2 years, growth data were recorded for the determination of the most suitable growth model. Starvation and subsequent refeeding were realized in juvenile fish. The fish were exposed to three feeding regimes. Control groups (C1 and C2) were fed daily to satiation throughout the weeks 11 and 14. Fish in the two treatments were deprived of food for 1-week followed by 2 weeks or 1 week of refeeding (T1 and T2) in repeated cycles. In the second experimental group, fish were deprived of food for 1 day followed by 2 or 1 day of refeeding (T3 and T4) in repeated cycles. Length and weight were determined at daily/weekly feeding (C2/C1), feeding every other day/week (T4/T2), feeding at two-day/week intervals (T3/T1) in all treatments. The results indicated that growth in the T1 and T4 groups exhibited similar results with the control group. Overall, alternative feeding strategies can be used instead of continuous feeding.