ABSTRACT: The objectives of this study were to assess the effects of i) pre-incubation storage time of Pekin duck eggs on incubation parameters and ii) different levels of in ovo injection with maltodextrin on Pekin duckling weight. The study was divided into two experiments using hatching eggs of Cherry Valley SM2 hens with egg-laying ages between 31 and 40 weeks. In experiment I, 8,820 eggs were subjected to different periods of pre-incubation storage (one-seven days). For experiment II, 120 eggs weighing between 75 and 85 g were selected and inoculated with 250 µL of 0.75% saline solution with different concentrations of maltodextrin treatments (0%, 1.5%, 3.0%, and 4.5%). In relation to pre-incubation storage time, eggs stored for one day had lower hatching and hatchability rates and higher duckling mortality rates than eggs stored for longer periods (P < 0.05). In ovo injection with 3.0% maltodextrin in 0.75% saline solution significantly increased the hatching weight of Pekin ducklings (53.62 g) compared to that by other study treatments (P < 0.05). Therefore, Pekin duck eggs produced between 31 and 40 weeks of life may be stored between two and seven days without affecting hatchery productivity parameters. The hatching weight of Pekin ducks may be improved with in ovoinjection with 3.0% maltodextrin in 0.75% saline solution.

RESUMO: Os objetivos deste estudo foram i) avaliar a influência do tempo de estocagem pré-incubação dos ovos de marrecos de Pequim sobre os parâmetros de incubação, e ii) avaliar o efeito de diferentes níveis de inclusão da maltodextrina in ovo sobre o peso inicial dos pintinhos de marrecos de Pequim. O estudo foi dividido em dois experimentos, onde foram utilizados ovos incubáveis de matrizes Cherry Valley SM2 com idade de postura entre 31 e 40 semanas. No experimento I 8.820 ovos foram submetidos a diferentes períodos de estocagem pré-incubação (um a sete dias). Para o experimento II, foram selecionados 120 ovos com peso entre 75 a 85 gramas, sendo inoculado 250 µL de solução salina 0,75% associada à maltodextrina em diferentes concentrações nos tratamentos (0%, 1,5%, 3,0% e 4,5%). Em relação ao tempo de estocagem pré-incubação, os ovos estocados por um dia apresentaram menores percentuais de eclosão e eclodibilidade e maior percentual de descarte ao nascimento quando comparado com os ovos estocados por mais tempo (P< 0,05). A inoculação de 3,0% maltodextrina em solução salina 0,75% in ovo resultou em maiores peso ao nascimento dos pintinhos (53,62g), diferindo dos demais tratamentos avaliados (P< 0,05). Portanto, ovos de marrecos produzidos entre as 31 e 40 semanas de vida das aves podem ficar estocados entre dois a sete dias em sala de estocagem sem influenciar os parâmetros de produtividade do incubatório e a inclusão de 3,0% de maltodextrina associada a solução salina 0,75% in ovo melhorou o peso ao nascimento de marrecos de Pequim.

Abstract. The reproductive and larval performance of Pteria sterna associated with anomalous environmental factors was evaluated, testing the hypothesis that the transition from La Niña to El Niño in 2008-2009 affected the “normal” periods in which ripe broodstock are collected and larvae are reared in a hatchery. Seasonal sampling included 2 reproductive periods (February and April 2009), 1 pre-reproductive period (November 2008), and 1 post-reproductive period (June 2009). Of the 40 oysters collected in each period, 20 were used for induced spawning and larval culture, while 20 were used to evaluate indices of reproductive performance. Water temperature, salinity, and seston content were monitored in each period. Sea surface temperature (SST) data associated with anomalous environmental conditions were obtained from the Aqua-MODIS satellite. Variations in SST affected reproductive performance more than larval performance in Pteria sterna. Spawning induction failed in November 2008 and succeeded in February, April, and June 2009, although only the larvae from April completed metamorphosis and settled, given the riper broodstock, larger oocytes, and favorable environmental conditions (21.80 °C; 31 mg·L-1 total seston; +0.50 °C SST). Positive SST anomalies (+0.50 to +1.10 °C) from August to December 2008 resulted in longer summer conditions that affected spawning in February 2009. In June 2009 (22.50 °C; 29.50 mg·L-1 total seston; +0.40 °C SST), when the percentages of ripe gonads and mature oocytes were small, the larvae were not viable, and few spat settled. In addition to collecting ripe broodstock in winter-spring for optimal larval and spat viability, we recommend including a brief conditioning period at the hatchery following the spawning peak and a second conditioning period in late autumn to promote nutrient recycling and natural gamete recovery.

Resumen. Se estudió el desempeño reproductivo y larvario de Pteria sterna en relación a factores ambientales anómalos, hipotetizando que la transición entre los eventos de La Niña y El Niño 2008-2009 afectó los periodos “normales” para recolectar reproductores maduros y cultivar larvas en laboratorio. Se realizaron muestreos estacionales en 2 periodos reproductivos (febrero y abril 2009), 1 periodo pre-reproductivo (noviembre 2008) y 1 periodo post-reproductivo (junio 2009). De las 40 ostras recolectadas en cada periodo, 20 se utilizaron para evaluar el desove y cultivo larvario y 20 para determinar indicadores de condición reproductiva. La temperatura, salinidad y contenido de seston se monitorearon en cada periodo. Los datos de temperatura superficial del mar (TSM) asociados a condiciones ambientales anómalas se obtuvieron del satélite Aqua-MODIS. Las variaciones en la TSM afectaron más el desempeño reproductivo que el desempeño larvario de Pteria sterna. La inducción al desove falló en noviembre 2008 y fue exitosa en febrero, abril y junio 2009, aunque solo en abril las larvas completaron la metamorfosis y se fijaron, a partir de reproductores más maduros, ovocitos más grandes y condiciones ambientales favorables (21.80 °C; ~31 mg·L-1 seston total; +0.50 °C TSM). Las anomalías positivas de TSM (+0.50 a +1.10 °C) de agosto a diciembre 2008 favorecieron un verano más largo que afectó el desove de febrero 2009. En junio 2009 (22.50 °C, 29.50 mg·L-1 seston total, +0.40 °C TSM), cuando los porcentajes de gónadas y ovocitos maduros eran bajos, las larvas no fueron viables y pocas semillas se fijaron. Además de recolectar reproductores maduros en invierno-primavera para una viabilidad óptima de las larvas y semillas, recomendamos incluir un breve periodo de acondicionamiento en el laboratorio después del pico de desove y un segundo a finales del otoño para promover el reciclaje de nutrientes y la recuperación natural de gametos.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was a detection of different populations of Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei Boone, 1931) farmed broodstocks and to determine their genetic indexes in hatchery centers of Bushehr province. DNA was extracted from the muscle tissue of 30 broodstocks of 11 stocks using a commercial kit. The repeated sequences were amplified using ten specific primers by PCR in the Iranian Shrimp Center. The results showed that the number of alleles was 4.5-5.5 in the studied stocks. The most allele frequency was observed in the farmed broad stocks of the third stock in the H2 hatchery center, 5.2 ± 0/359. Also, the average of observed heterozygosity in the farmed broad stocks of the second stock in the H5 hatchery center obtained 0.669 ± 0.152, more than other stocks in all centers. Genetics indexes of the farmed broad stocks of the third stock in the H2 hatchery center were increased compared with other stocks in Bucher province. The inbreeding coefficients of the first stocks in the H1 and H3 hatchery centers were significantly more than others, respectively, 0.595 ± 0.105 and 0.547 ± 0.145. The increased inbreeding coefficients of the farmed broad stocks in these stocks can be referred to due to the small size of the founder population and biased selection programs. However, this amount is acceptable according to the information of the other hatchery centers in Bushehr province and other countries. Moreover, it was concluded that broodstock with higher diversity should be used to increase the genetic indicators in the hatchery centers.

Resumo Os parâmetros de qualidade da água de um viveiro de peixes são essenciais para um manejo adequado e sob controle para operações bem-sucedidas de piscicultura. O manejo inadequado da qualidade da água do tanque durante os estágios juvenis pode criar condições estressantes para a produção de várias doenças nocivas, o que pode diminuir a qualidade do peixe e resultar em baixos lucros. O presente estudo teve como objetivo monitorar importantes parâmetros de qualidade da água de viveiros de cultivo de Labeo rohita em incubadora de peixes Bannu. A duração do estudo foi de 75 dias, estendendo-se de 10 de junho a 24 de agosto de 2019 para o sucesso do cultivo dessa espécie que pode desempenhar papel significativo na época de reprodução. Além disso, a concentração de alguns metais pesados como cobre (Cu), níquel (Ni), manganês (Mn), ferro (Fe), cádmio (Cd) e zinco (Zn) na água do tanque e estágios de fritura dessa espécie também foram determinados. Os dados obtidos de todos os parâmetros de qualidade da água foram analisados expressos como faixa, média e desvio padrão usando o MS Excel 2013. Os resultados obtidos de 75 dias de estudo revelaram que o pH e temperatura da água, condutividade elétrica, sólidos totais dissolvidos (TDS) e total de oxigênio dissolvido (OD) das amostras de água do lago foram encontrados dentro de um limite tolerável, exceto salinidade e concentração de amônia dissolvida não eram permitidas para o crescimento dos peixes. A concentração média de metais pesados na água da lagoa apresentou ordem decrescente Fe > Ni > Mn > Zn > Cd > Ni, que foi encontrada em faixas aceitáveis. Já os valores médios dos metais pesados nos estágios de fritura foram da ordem de Zn > Fe > Ni > Cu > Cd > Mn, e encontrados dentro dos valores recomendados pela OMS/FAO. Assim, concluiu-se deste estudo que a boa qualidade da água é uma condição prévia, manter níveis equilibrados dos parâmetros de qualidade da água é fundamental para a saúde e crescimento da piscicultura, o que é bastante necessário para garantir o aumento da produtividade piscícola. Recomendam-se monitorar e avaliar os parâmetros de qualidade da água em uma base rotineira para promover a piscicultura saudável.

Abstract The water quality parameters of a fish pond are essential to be managing properly under control for successful operations of fish culture. Improper management of pond water quality during the juvenile stages can create stressful conditions to produce various harmful diseases, which may decrease the fish quality and results in low profits. The present study was aimed to monitored important water quality parameters of nursery ponds of Labeo rohita culturing in Bannu fish hatchery. The study duration was 75 days extends from 10th June to 24th August 2019 for the successful culture of this specie which can play a significant role in breeding season. Furthermore, the concentration of some heavy metals like copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), cadmium (Cd), and zinc (Zn) in pond water and fry stages of this species was also determined. The data obtained from all water quality parameters were analyzed expressed as range, mean and standard deviation using MS Excel 2013. The obtained results of 75 days study revealed that the water pH & temperature, electric conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and total dissolved oxygen (DO) of pond water samples were found within a tolerable limit except salinity and dissolved ammonia concentration were not permissible for fish growth. The average concentration of heavy metals in pond water exhibited descending order Fe>Ni>Mn>Zn>Cd>Ni, which was found in acceptable ranges. Whereas, the average values of heavy metals in fry stages were in the order of Zn>Fe>Ni>Cu>Cd>Mn, and found within the recommended values of WHO/FAO. Thus, it was concluded from this study that good water quality is a precondition, maintaining balanced levels of water quality parameters is fundamental for both the health and growth of fish culture which is quite necessary for assuring increased fish productivity. It is recommended to monitor and assess water quality parameters on a routine basis for promoting healthy fish culture.

Resumo A presente investigação teve como objetivo examinar as concentrações de metais traço, incluindo cobre (Cu), manganês (Mn), níquel (Ni) e zinco (Zn) em amostras de água coletadas de viveiro de carpa-capim (Ctenopharyngodon idella) em Incubatório de Bannu de Khyber Pakhtunkhwa durante o período de abril de 2018 a janeiro de 2019. A temperatura e o pH de cada amostra de água foram medidos durante todo o período do estudo. A concentração de cobre (Cu), manganês (Mn), níquel (Ni) e zinco (Zn) nas amostras de água coletadas foi medida em mg / litro usando espectrofotômetro de absorção atômica. As soluções em branco e padrão para as soluções padrão de calibração do dispositivo, ou seja, 2,0 mg, 4,0 mg e 6,0, foram usadas para medir a concentração desses metais em amostras de água para verificar as medições. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente em estatística descritiva (estimativa de proporções e desvio padrão) usada para resumir a concentração média. Os resultados obtidos tanto de temperatura quanto de pH das amostras de água variaram de 10 a 36 0C e 7,0 a 8,44, enquanto o tamanho dos estágios de alevinos variou de 4,0 a 56,0 mm no comprimento total. Os resultados dos metais investigados encontrados em amostras de água de lagoas são da ordem de Zn > Mn > Ni > Cu, respectivamente. A temperatura e o pH ótimos para a carpa-capim foram principalmente entre 15 0C e 30 0C e pH 6,5 a 8,0. Concluiu-se, a partir dos resultados obtidos, que temperatura, pH e traços de metais foram considerados adequados para o crescimento de Ctenopharyngodon idella desde os estágios de alevinos até alevinos, mas a maior quantidade de zinco pode causar sua mortalidade. É um estudo preliminar sobre a cultura da carpa-capim em incubatório de peixes Bannu, portanto forneceria informações úteis para modelo de unidade de produção de sementes de peixes em um incubatório.

Abstract The present investigation was aimed to examine the concentrations of trace metals including e.g copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn) in water samples collected from nursery pond of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) in Bannu Hatchery of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during the period from April 2018 to January 2019. The temperature and pH of each water sample were measured for the whole study duration. The concentration of Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), and Zinc (Zn) in collected water samples were measured in mg/liter by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The blank and standard solutions for device calibration Standard solutions i.e., 2.0 mg, 4.0 mg, and 6.0 were used to measure the concentration of these metals in water samples to verify the measurements. The data was statistically analyzed on descriptive statistics (estimation of proportions and standard deviation) used to summarize mean concentration. The results obtained of both temperature and pH of water samples were found in ranged 10 to 36 0C and 7.0 to 8.44; whereas the size of fry stages was ranged from 4.0 to 56.0 mm in total length. The results of investigated metals found in pond water samples are in order of Zn>Mn>Ni>Cu, respectively. As optimum temperature and pH for grass carp were mostly between 15 0C and 30 0C and pH 6.5 to 8.0. It was concluded from obtained results that temperature, pH, and trace metals were found appropriate for the growth of Ctenopharyngodon idella from fry to fingerling stages, but the highest amount of zinc can cause its mortality. It is a preliminary study on grass carp culturing in Bannu fish hatchery so, it would provide useful information for model fish seed production unit in a hatchery.

Resumo O objetivo da aquicultura de Galaxias maculatus é produzir milhões de ovos. As fêmeas selvagens são pequenas (2 g) e têm maturidade sexual rápida e fecundidade média baixa (500 ovos/fêmea), necessitando de peixes maiores e com fecundidade superior. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar experimentalmente o efeito dos níveis de proteínas, lipídios e energia da dieta sobre o aumento de peso em adultos. Cinco experimentos independentes foram realizados em diferentes períodos sequenciais de tempo no incubatório UCT, Chile. Os espécimes foram obtidos a partir de: a) capturas de espécimes de retorno do mar cristalino no estuário de Tolten (4-6 cm, 0,3-0,4 g); b) peixes de cultura em incubatório. Os peixes foram alimentados à mão ad libitum. Nos experimentos de 1 a 4, dietas peletizadas foram preparadas com três a cinco níveis de proteína (tratamentos 27 a 57%), tamanho do crumble, três repetições de tanques de fibra de 100 L. No experimento 5, o efeito de dois níveis de lipídios (8 e 21%) foi avaliado com dieta comercial isoproteica crumble 1 de Salmon Nutra Starter extrusada a 63%, replicada em quatro tanques. Os resultados mostram: uma tendência ao aumento de peso em todos os tamanhos, com um aumento do nível de proteína na dieta peletizada; um crescimento adulto máximo com uma dieta contendo um mínimo de 37% de proteína bruta, com 40% do valor ideal; uma porcentagem maior de proteína na dieta ou crescimento em peso com menor taxa de conversão alimentar. A taxa de conversão alimentar na dieta extrusada chega a 0,5, e na peletizada varia de 0,7 a 1,5. Peixes de 0,6 g alimentados com 63% de proteína e dieta comercial extrusada com dois níveis lipídicos diferentes (8 e 21%; 20,40 e 23,84 MJ kg-1; PE / TE 0,62 e 0,71) aumentaram de peso no primeiro mês em 67 e 105% cada, respectivamente. Foi estabelecido que dietas de alta energia com níveis ótimos de proteínas e lipídios são uma boa solução de curto prazo para obter G. maculatus de peso mais alto.

Abstract Galaxias maculatus aquaculture objectives is to produce millions of eggs. Wild females are small (2 g), have quick sexual maturity and low mean fecundity (500 eggs/female), requiring larger fishes with higher fecundity. This study aim is to evaluate experimentally the effect of the levels of protein, lipid and dietary energy on weight increases in adults. Five independent experiments were performed at different sequential time periods at the UCT hatchery, Chile. Specimens were obtained from a) Crystalline sea return specimen catches in the Tolten estuary (4 -6 cm, 0.3-0.4 g.). b) Hatchery cultured fish. Fish were fed by hand ad libitum. In experiments 1 to 4, pelleted diets were prepared with 3 to 5 levels of protein (treatments 27 up to 57%), crumble size, three 100 L fibre ponds replicates. In experiment 5 the effect of two lipid levels (8 and 21%) was evaluated with commercial extruded Salmon Nutra Starter isoproteic crumble 1 diet at 63%, replicated in 4 ponds. The results show: A tendency to increased weight in all sizes with an increased protein level in the pelleted diet.A maximal adult growth is obtained with a diet containing a minimum of 37% crude protein, with 40% the optimal value. A higher % protein in the diet or growth in weight lower feed conversion ratio. The feed conversion ratio in the extruded diet reaches up to 0.5 and in the pelleted vary from 0.7 to 1.5. Fish 0.6 g fed with 63% protein, extruded commercial diet with two different lipid levels (8 and 21%, 20.40 and 23.84 MJ kg-1, PE/TE 0.62 and 0.71) increased weight the first month 67 and 105% each. It has been established that high-energy diets with optimal levels of protein and lipid are a good short-term solution to obtain G. maculatus of higher weight.

Resumo Cyprinus carpio é o membro da família cyprinidae comumente chamada de carpa comum. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a população de cérebros de carpa comum selvagem (sistema fluvial) e em cativeiro (criação em incubatório). Um total de trinta amostras (15 do incubatório e 15 do rio Swat) foram coletadas. Todos os espécimes foram examinados no Laboratório de Parasitoloy, Departamento de Zoologia da Universidade de Malakand. Os resultados indicaram que a população selvagem era maior em tamanho e peso do cérebro em comparação com a população criada em incubatório. As amostras de peixes coletadas em ambiente de cativeiro (incubatório) estavam apresentando mais peso e comprimento em comparação com a população selvagem de carpas comuns. O valor médio do peso total dos peixes de incubação 345 ± 48,68 e o valor médio do peso do cérebro de peixes criados em incubadoras 0,28 ± 0,047. O valor médio do peso corporal total dos peixes selvagens 195,16 ± 52,58 e o valor médio do peso do cérebro dos peixes selvagens são 0,45 ± 0,14. A presente pesquisa apela para o fato de que peixes em condições ambientais dependentes possuem cérebros maiores em tamanho em comparação com sua população em cativeiro, isso se deve ao uso e desuso do cérebro em suas necessidades ambientais.

Abstract Cyprinus carpio is the member of family cyprinidae commonly called common carp. This study was aimed to find out the comparison of brain of wild (river system) and captive (hatchery reared) population of common carp. A total of thirty samples (15 from hatchery and 15 from river Swat) were collected. All the specimens were examined in Laboratory of Parasitoloy, Zoology Department, University of Malakand. Findings indicated that wild population were greater in brain size and weight as compared to hatchery reared population. The fish samples collected from captive environment (hatchery) were showing more weight and length as compared to wild population of common carps. The mean value of total weight of hatchery fishes 345±48.68 and the mean value of brain weight of hatchery reared fishes 0.28±0.047. The mean value of wild fish’s total body weight 195.16±52.58 and the mean value of brain weight of wild fishes are 0.45±0.14. Present research calls for the fact that fish in dependent environmental conditions possess brain larger in size as compared to its captive population, it is due to use and disuse of brain in their environmental requirements.

Abstract The Santa Catarina Island Bay (SCIB) contributes with the largest production of cultivated oysters in Brazil, which is almost entirely based on hatchery produced cultchless oyster spat, whose metamorphosis is induced by an epinephrine solution. A production scale experiment was carried out to analyze the technical feasibility of the spat-on-shell system in SCIB. The experiment was carried out for 47 weeks, involving an internal phase, the larval settlement, and an external phase, encompassing nursery and growth. Nursery periods varied according to the experimental treatments: T3W - 3 weeks; T5W - 5 weeks; and T12W - 12 weeks. T3W and T5W showed lower survival during the two-week period shortly after transfer of the cultch from the nursery to the grow-out phase, likely linked to premature exposure of the spat in the cultch strings to predators such as fish. The 12-week nursery period showed the best results with clusters with a median of 6 animals and 11.4 g of meat per oyster at the end of the experimental period. Future studies could verify whether longer nursery periods or alternative methods to avoid exposure to predators can outperform these results.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to determine the effects that breeder age has on digestive and immune system development; the transfer of immunoglobulins to egg yolk, yolk sac, and neonate chicks; and the immune response of chicks up to 35 days old. Three ages (32, 42, and 52 weeks) of Hubbard breeders were studied with ages as treatments. A total of 425 eggs were weighed for each of the three treatments and incubated. After hatching, a total of 300 1-day-old chicks were used in each treatment. We studied the development of the gastrointestinal tract and immune system of progeny and IgY transfer from breeder to progeny. Chicks from 52-week-old breeders had greater gastrointestinal tract growth up to seven days of life and greater body weight at 14 days. Older breeders (52 weeks) had higher amounts of IgY in serum and egg yolk. Chicks from the youngest breeders (32-weeks-old) had a better immune response at two weeks post-vaccination. It can be concluded that the older breeders have a greater capacity to immunize progeny up to 14 days. Strategies can be developed to increase IgY in the serum of young breeders and, consequently, increase the innate immunity of the newly-hatched chicks.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo comparar o tamanho do cérebro de mahseer (Tor putitora) em relação ao seu peso corporal e comprimento padrão, para investigar o impacto potencial do ambiente de criação no desenvolvimento do cérebro em peixes. O peso do cérebro e três de suas subdivisões — cerebelo (CB), tectum óptico (OT) e telencéfalo (TC) — foram medidos para peixes selvagens e criados em incubadoras. Os dados foram analisados usando análise múltipla de covariância (MANCOVA), análise de covariância (ANCOVA) e análise de função discriminante (DFA). Descobrimos que os peixes criados em condições de incubação apresentam menor tamanho do cérebro em relação ao peso corporal quando comparados aos selvagens. Uma diferença significativa (p <0,5) foi observada no comprimento do CB e OT em relação ao comprimento corporal padrão, enquanto nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada no CT dos peixes de ambas as origens. Os resultados do estudo atual destacam uma suposição lógica de que a deficiência neural afeta o comportamento dos peixes. É por isso que os peixes criados em cativeiro mostram uma resposta mal adaptativa e enfrentam declínio de aptidão quando liberados no ambiente natural para o aprimoramento do estoque selvagem. O estudo atual concluiu que os peixes criados em incubadoras exibem variações na morfologia cerebral bruta em comparação com suas contrapartes selvagens.

Abstract The present study was aimed at comparing the brain size of mahseer (Tor putitora) in relation to their body weight and standard length, to investigate the potential impact of rearing environment on brain development in fish. The weight of the brain and three of its subdivisions cerebellum (CB), optic tectum (OT), and telencephalon (TC) were measured for both wild and hatchery-reared fish. The data was analysed using multiple analysis of covariance (MANCOVA), analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), and discriminate function analysis (DFA). We found the fish reared under hatchery conditions exhibit smaller brain size related to body weight, when compared to the wild ones. A significant (p<0.5) difference was observed in the length of CB and OT concerning the standard body length while no significant difference was found in TC of the fish from both the origins. The results of the current study highlight a logical assumption that neural deficiency affects the behaviour of fish, that’s why the captive-reared fish show maladaptive response and face fitness decline when released to the natural environment for wild stock enhancement. The current study concluded that hatchery-reared fish exhibit variations in gross brain morphology as compared to their wild counterpart.

Resumen Introducción: Para incrementar el número de crías de tortugas marinas, es necesario mejorar estrategias de conservación, como incubación de nidos, en condiciones de vivero que contrarresten los efectos de las condiciones climáticas extremas. Objetivo: Comparar cinco parámetros de éxito reproductivo (éxito de eclosión, huevos sin desarrollo aparente, crías muertas, mortalidad embrionaria y período de incubación) de la tortuga marina Lepidochelys olivacea. Métodos: Se evaluó la incubación de nidos bajo dos períodos de reubicación de nidos (P1 ~28.8 °C agosto-septiembre y P2 ~27.1 °C octubre-noviembre, temperatura ambiental promedio, bajo condiciones de vivero, en el 2018 en Guerrero, México. Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias significativas en el éxito de eclosión y la mortalidad embrionaria entre los períodos de reubicación de nidos (P < 0.001). En P1, se observaron valores más bajos de éxito de eclosión (77.0 % P1 vs 88.6 % P2) y valores más altos de mortalidad embrionaria (13.7 % P1 vs 3.3 % P2) comparados con los de P2. Es importante señalar que, en el presente estudio la mortalidad embrionaria se presentó en una etapa tardía de desarrollo, es decir, en embriones casi completamente desarrollados. No se encontraron diferencias entre periodos respecto a los parámetros de huevos sin desarrollo aparente, crías muertas y período de incubación. Conclusiones: Las diferencias entre las condiciones ambientales durante el primer período de reubicación de nidos en comparación con el segundo período parecen afectar el éxito de eclosión y mortalidad embrionaria de L. olivacea. Por lo tanto, es importante tomar medidas al respecto durante esta etapa de incubación para tratar de mejorar la incubación de nidos bajo condiciones de vivero.

Abstract Introduction: In order to increase the number of sea turtle hatchlings, it is necessary to improve conservation strategies, such as nest incubation in hatchery conditions that counteract the effects of extreme climatic conditions. Objective: To compare five reproductive success parameters (hatching success, eggs with no apparent embryonic development, dead hatchlings, embryonic mortality, and incubation period) of the sea turtle Lepidochelys olivacea. Methods: The incubation of nests was evaluated under two periods of nest relocation, P1 ~28.8 °C (August and September) and P2 ~27.1 °C (October and November), average ambient temperature, under hatchery condition, in 2018 in Guerrero, Mexico. Results: Significant differences were found in hatching success and embryonic mortality between nest relocation periods (P < 0.001). In P1, lower values of hatching success (77.0 % P1 vs 88.6 % P2) and higher values of embryonic mortality (13.7 % P1 vs 3.3 % P2) were observed compared to those of P2. It’s important pointing that, in the present study, embryonic mortality occurred at a late stage of development, that is, in almost fully developed embryos. No differences were found between periods regarding the parameters eggs with no apparent embryonic development, dead hatchlings and incubation period. Conclusions: The differences between the environmental conditions during the first period of nest relocation compared to the second period, respectively, seem to affect the hatching success and embryonic mortality of L. olivacea. Therefore, it is important to take action on this issue during this incubation stage to try to improve the incubation of nests under hatchery conditions.

Abstract At the marine turtle conservation program in Boca de Tomates, Jalisco, Mexico, all nests are relocated to fenced-off beach hatchery or polystyrene boxes due to illegal egg collection, predation, erosion, and high sand temperatures. For both methods we evaluated the following nest viability and hatchling quality parameters: hatching success, nest temperatures, incubation duration, and hatchling quality (locomotor performance, morphometrics, weight, and congenital malformations). Hatching success was significantly higher in the beach hatchery (mean 77.4%, n = 1,368) than in boxes (average 59.91%, n = 1,160) (P < 0.001). The beach hatchery nests hatched in less time (hatchery = 46 d, boxes = 51 d) (P < 0.001) due to the significantly higher mean temperature (hatchery = 32.62 ºC, boxes 30.58 ºC) (P < 0.001). The hatchery was exposed to less temperature variability per day (hatchery = 1.46 ºC, boxes = 2.69 ºC) (P < 0.001). To test hatchling quality, 10 hatchlings were randomly selected from each nest (n = 254). The weight, size, and locomotor performance (righting response and time to crawl 3 m) of these organisms were recorded. Live and dead neonates were carefully inspected for malformations (n = 2,000). No significant difference was found between incubation methods in any hatchling quality parameter (P > 0.050). The malformations at this site have low prevalence (hatchery = 1.35%, boxes = 1.89%) and low intensity index per organism (hatchery = 1.52, boxes = 1.89) compared to other studies and species. This is the first study, to our knowledge, that compares hatchling quality from 2 ex situ incubation methods in a single species (Lepidochelys olivacea), at the same location, and during the same period of time. Carrying out studies such as this one is important, since the quality of hatchlings can contribute to their ability to survive and reproduce in the future.

Resumen Dentro del programa de conservación de tortugas marinas en Boca de Tomates, Jalisco (México), todos los nidos de Lepidochelys olivacea son reubicados a corral de playa o a cajas de poliestireno debido a la recolección ilegal de huevos, la depredación, la erosión y las altas temperaturas de la arena. Con ambos métodos de incubación evaluamos los siguientes términos de viabilidad del nido y calidad de los neonatos: éxito de eclosión, temperatura del nido, duración de incubación y calidad de neonatos (desempeño locomotor, morfometría, peso y malformaciones congénitas). El éxito de eclosión fue significativamente mayor en corral (promedio = 77.4%, n = 1368) que en cajas (promedio = 59.91%, n = 1,160) (P < 0.001). Los nidos incubados en corral eclosionaron en menor tiempo que aquellos incubados en cajas (corral = 46 d, cajas = 51 d) (P < 0.001) debido a una temperatura promedio significativamente más elevada (corral = 32.62 ºC, cajas = 30.58 ºC) (P < 0.001). El corral fue expuesto a menor variabilidad de la fluctuación térmica diaria (corral = 1.46 ºC, cajas = 2.69 ºC) (P < 0.001). No encontramos diferencia significativa en ningún parámetro de calidad de los neonatos entre los métodos de incubación (P > 0.050). Determinamos que las malformaciones en L. olivacea tienen baja prevalencia (corral = 1.35%, caja = 1.89%) y bajo índice de intensidad por organismo (corral = 1.52, cajas = 1.89) en este sitio. Este es el primer estudio que conocemos que compara la calidad de neonatos de una misma especie (L. olivacea) entre estos 2 métodos de incubación ex situ en la misma ubicación y durante el mismo periodo de tiempo. Realizar estudios similares a este es importante, puesto que la calidad de los neonatos puede contribuir a su capacidad de supervivencia y reproducción.

Resumen En reptiles ovíparos, el crecimiento folicular y la vitelogénesis se encuentran influenciados por factores ambientales, sociales y hormonales. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar el efecto de la presencia del macho, a través de la cópula u otras señales en el desarrollo folicular y el comportamiento en hembras de Salvator merianae. Se trabajó con hembras de S. merianae del Criadero Experimental de la Facultad de Agronomía y Zootecnia. Se observaron comportamientos sociales y reproductivos en hembras en presencia de machos (en criadero, en familias reproductivas y en aislamiento sexual), y en ausencia de machos (en grupos e individualmente). Se determinó la proporción de ciclos vitelogénicos, el desarrollo y la tasa de crecimiento de los folículos ováricos y la relación cópula-tamaño folicular. Las hembras en familias reproductivas se comportaron con normalidad, sin intentos de fuga ni agresiones entre ellas, con un porcentaje significativamente mayor de ciclos vitelogénicos (80 %) y con una tasa de crecimiento folicular superior a la de los 3 grupos en aislamiento sexual. El 87,5 % de las hembras receptivas al macho consumaron las cópulas con folículos ecográficamente vitelogénicos. El 64 % de las hembras aisladas sexualmente cerca de machos cursaron ciclos vitelogénicos. En el grupo de las hembras sin machos, las hembras en aislamiento individual mostraron cierto grado de agresividad y el 47 % realizó vitelogénesis; mientras que las hembras en aislamiento grupal se mostraron agresivas, con intentos de fuga y sólo el 31 % realizó vitelogénesis. Los resultados indicarían que, si bien el macho actúa como “potenciador” de la vitelogénesis, el inicio de este proceso es independiente de su presencia. Respecto al comportamiento, la privación de individuos del sexo opuesto parecería aumentar la agresividad y disminuir el desarrollo ovárico, particularmente en hembras aisladas en grupo.

Abstract In oviparous reptiles, follicular growth and vitellogenesis are influenced by environmental, social, and hormonal factors. The aim of this study was to test the effect of male presence, mating or other signals, on the follicular development and behavior of Salvator merianae females. The study was carried out with S. merianae females from the Experimental Hatchery of Facultad de Agronomía y Zootecnia (Universidad Nacional de Tucumán). Social and reproductive behaviors were observed in females in the presence of males (in hatchery, reproductive families or sexual isolation), and in the absence of males (in groups or individually). Proportion of vitellogenic cycles, development and growth rate of ovarian follicles and copula-follicular size relationship were determined. The females in reproductive families behaved normally, without attempts to escape or aggressions among them, with a significantly higher percentage of vitellogenic cycles (80 %) and with a follicular growth rate higher than that of the 3 groups in sexual isolation. The 87.5 % of the females receptive to the male, copulated with sonographically vitellogenic follicles. The 64 % of the females isolated sexually close to males, performed vitellogenic cycles. In the group of females without males, females isolated individually showed a certain degree of aggressiveness and 47 % showed vitellogenesis; while females in isolated groups were aggressive and attempted to escape, with 31 % of them undergoing vitellogenesis. The results indicated that, although the male acts as an “enhancer” of vitellogenesis, the initiation of this process is independent of its presence. Regarding behavior, deprivation of individuals of the opposite sex seems to increase aggressiveness and decrease ovarian development, particularly in group-isolated females.

Abstract: Based on methodologies currently used in commercial hatcheries, four thermic treatments were compared to induce the gametes expulsion of Argopecten purpuratus. The treatments evaluated included: 1) gradual increase in temperature, 2) gradual decrease, 3) 5 °C thermal-shock, 4) 10 °C thermal-shock and 5) control at constant temperature 16 °C. After induction, the number of fertilized oocytes in each treatment was estimated. The results show that a gradual increase in temperature between 16 and 26 °C causes a significantly higher proportion of fertilized oocytes compared to other treatments.

ABSTRACT Objectives of the present study were to assess the hatchery based interventions and their impact on hatching traits and subsequent performance of broilers. In total, 3000 eggs of Hubbard broiler breeders were equally divided into Small (50-55 g), Medium (56-61 g) and Large (62-70 g) eggs. The eggs from each category were distributed into 20 trays each containing 50 eggs. Each tray was considered as a replicate. At the end of the 18th day of incubation, the eggs of each weight category were divided into four different patio strategies i.e. P0, P3, P5 and P7 where feed and water were provided to the chicks for 0, 3, 5 and 7 days in the hatcher followed by conventional rearing. Data were collected for hatch window, hatching traits, growth, physical asymmetry, welfare and blood profile in broilers. Statistical analysis showed that the smaller eggs had significantly (P<0.05) shorter hatch window compared to larger and medium eggs. Hatching traits were significantly (p<0.05) better in medium eggs but the embryonic mortalities did not differ (p>0.05). The post-hatch performance was significantly (p<0.05) better in P3 birds from medium eggs. Physical asymmetry and scores of feather and gait were not affected by both treatments (p>0.05). Blood profile was also significantly (p<0.05) better in P3 birds from medium-size eggs. It was recommended that the eggs of 56-61g should be selected for better hatchability and the chicks should be provided with feed and water within the hatcher for at-least three days for optimum performance on rearing facility.