Yolk Utilization in Summer Flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) Embryos and Larvae Reared at Two Temperatures

Abstract

The influence of rearing temperatur on growth and yolk utilization in embryos and larvae of the summer flounder Paralichthys dentalus has been investigated. Rates of development, growth and yolk conversion efficiencies were determined for embryos and larvae reared at 16°C and 21°C. Larvae reared at 21°C completed total yolk absorption sooner than did larvae reared at 16°C. However, no significant differences were found in total body length, ash-free dry weight or yolk utilization efficiency for larvae from the two groups. The similarity in growth and yolk utilization efficiency for larvae reared at the two temperatures suggests that the physiological mechanisms involved are able to compensate for temperature changes.