Panulirus ornatus lobster feed development: from trash fish to formulated feeds

摘要

The development of pelleted feeds is a priority for the long-term sustainability and advancement of the Panulirus ornatus (ornate spiny lobster) industry. This paper outlines the steps taken in the development of moist and dry pelleted feeds for juvenile (<10 g) and subadult (>600 g) P. ornatus lobsters. A goal of the project was to develop formulated feeds that promoted growth and survival rates comparable to those achieved by lobsters fed with fresh feed items and trash fish. This challenge required a multifaceted approach to develop feeds that were attractive, easily ingested, water stable and cost-effective in meeting the animals' nutrient requirements. Feed development with subadult lobsters has progressed rapidly, culminating in the development of a practical, high-performing, dry feed that promotes high survival (>95%) and growth rates comparable to those achieved by lobsters fed on trash fish in seacage culture experiments in Vietnam. Feed development with juvenile lobsters was more problematic due to large seasonal variations in settlement numbers, coupled with incidences of high mortality. However, a moist formulated feed has been developed that promotes survival and growth rates superior to lobsters fed on a mixture of Perna canaliculus(green-lipped mussel) and Sillago ciliata (whiting) fish flesh.