Metabolic rates in hatchery-reared European lobster juveniles (Homarus gammarus L.)

Abstract

The user has requested enhancement of the downloaded file. Journal of Aquaculture & Marine Biology Metabolic rates in hatchery-reared European lobster juveniles (Homarus gammarus L.) Submit Manuscript | Abstract The existing information on the metabolism in European lobster (Homarus gammarus) is sparse. However, dimensioning of intensive systems for commercial production of lobster in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) requires adequate information in order to optimise financial calculations and profit margins. Thus, a lack of available data, especially regarding oxygen consumption and ammonia excretion, hampers development and commercialisation of lobster aquaculture. During 2010 and 2013, respiration and excretion rates in juvenile lobsters ranging from 0.06 to 208 g were recorded in a respirometer. These tests aimed to obtain data of standard metabolism in lobster at normal activity and optimum temperature (20 ±1°C). The metabolic rate in fed juveniles < 2 g varied from 1.2 to 14.3 mg O2/kg min. In the larger juveniles and adults, the metabolic rate was less variable ranging from 1.1 to 3.1 mg O2/kg min. The respiration rate in unfed lobsters was relatively stable, varying from 0.8 to 2.4 mg O2/kg min. The excretion rate was likewise larger in the smaller juveniles with a mean of 0.51 mg TAN/kg/min compared with the largest individuals of 0.07. This article briefly describes the two respirometer tests performed in order to improve the financial stipulations and reduce the economic risk in a critical stage of development.