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Glover and colleagues publish in Aquaculture Research

April 1, 2015

Glover and colleagues publish in Aquaculture Research

Aquarium aquaculture

Dr. Dave Glover and colleagues recently published in Aquaculture Research: "Towards sustainable exhibits - application of an inorganic fertilization method in coral reef fish larviculture in an aquarium."

Large aquaria exhibits rely on obtaining wild-caught coral reef fish for their displays. Although these fish reproduce often in the aquaria, the eggs are typically neglected and the offspring do not survive. To enhance the survival of coral reef fish offspring we implemented an inorganic fertilization method that was developed by Dr. Culver’s Limnology Laboratory in freshwater fish culture. Specifically, we maintained both the concentration and ratio of nitrogen and phosphorus in indoor rearing tanks to increase productivity through bottom-up processes during the larval stage of the coral reef fish. The results indicated that the fertilization method increased chlorophyll a and edible zooplankton resulting in enhanced survival of the offspring relative to unfertilized control groups. This approach could alleviate unnecessary pressure on coral reef fish populations, leading to more sustainable aquaria displays.

To learn more about Dave's work, visit his website.