Some biological aspects and biomass estimation of Artemia in Maharloo Lake

Document Type : Research Paper

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Abstract

Maharloo lake (near Fars province) with a considerable restricted abiotic conditions such as very high salinity (300 g/lit) and a relatively high water temperature is inhabited by the brine-shrimp (Artemia parthenogenetica). This species has a worldwide distribution and in research, biology and biomass estimation of Artemia were studied. The sampling was carried out monthly and in addition to biomass estimation; spatial and temporal distribution patterns and reproduction behaviour were investigated. Simultaneously with field studies in lake ecosystem, some were transported laboratory and preserved in aquarium for further hatching experiments under suitable condition of light, aeration and feeding, In this way, hatching percentage, life cycle and different larval stages were determined. Also, other information related morphology and physiology characteristics of them were collected. The mean biomass of Artemia in Maharloo Lake was estimated 2.53 g/m3 per year.

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