A multidisciplinary optimization of the production characteristics of spotted wolffish

The proposed project aims at optimizing conditions during the ongrowing phase of spotted wolffish and improving quality of the end product. The effect of temperature x salinity interaction, photoperiod and water quality parameters on production characteri stics (growth, food conversion efficiency, maturation), and the underlying endocrine mechanisms involved, will be thoroughly investigated. The approach is multidisciplinary, and aims at investigating and exploiting basic physiological mechanisms under var ious rearing conditions, while at the same time linking those mechanisms to fish growth performance and quality of the end product. The main scientific challenge of the current proposal will be to ascertain how biotic and abiotic factors may be applied t o accelerate and control key production parameters throughout the whole production cycle of spotted wolffish, while simultaneously reducing feed and labour cost, reducing maturation and improving flesh quality of the end product. This is an important scie ntific question concerning the intensive aquaculture of spotted wolffish. This project aims at establishing optimal rearing conditions for maximal growth in the land-based rearing of spotted wolffish. We believe the proposed project will generate knowledg e that can be utilized by spotted wolffish producers in terms of increasing growth, reducing maturation and thus improve flesh quality, while at the same time reducing feed and labour costs. The project will investigate and define: - The impact of interac ting environmental factors (temperature and salinity) and define the optimal conditions for growth and food conversion. - The appropriate photoperiod regime that will increase growth and allow the farmer to control maturation in the ongrowing phase. - Opt imal rearing conditions in shallow raceways by implementing new oxygenation technology, specifically suitable for low water levels. - The effects of maturation on the flesh quality of the end-product.