A review of the nursery and growout techniques of high-value marine finfishes in Taiwan. In：K.L. Main and C. Rosenfeld (eds.)

Abstract

Currently, there are more than 30 marine finfish species under cultivation in Taiwan. Most species are cultured in ponds, but a few are cultured in cages. In most species, grading for size uniformity is necessary after the hatchery and nursery stage. In some carnivorous species, such as grouper and Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) , grading during the nursery stage is necessary because of serious (Epinephelus sp.) cannibalistic behavior. Marine finfish feeds include formulated moist pellets, dry floating and sinking pellets, and raw trash fish. Maintaining a suitable green water transparency (Chlorella spp.) is an important pond management strategy. Total pond production per hectare per crop typically ranges from 10-30 tons depending on species, pond size and facilities, water sources and farmers' production techniques. High mortality rates observed in marine finfish culture have been attributed to protozoan infections such as Amyloodinium ocellatum, Cryptocaryon irritans and Trichodina sp. General nursery and growout techniques used in Taiwan are reviewed, as well as the culture and related problems of high-value marine finfishes, such as grouper, Asian seabass, red snapper (Lutjanus argentimaculatus) and pompano (Trachinotus blochii).