This study evaluated the effects of different salinity levels and rotifer (Brachionus plicatilis, type S) densities on the growth and survival of orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) larvae. The experiment was conducted using a 3 × 4 factorial design, comprising three rotifer densities (5, 15, and 25 individuals/mL) and four salinity levels (25, 30, 35, and 40 ppt), with three replicates per treatment under uniform temperature and light conditions. Larvae, 2.5 days post-hatching with an initial mean total length of 2.16 mm, were stocked at 20 individuals per liter and fed twice daily. Survival and growth were assessed by counting remaining larvae and measuring their total lengths at the end of the trial. All larvae exposed to 40 ppt salinity died by day 3. The highest survival (16.25%) and maximum growth (mean total length: 3.27 mm) occurred at 30 ppt salinity with the highest rotifer density (25 individuals/mL). These results indicate that moderate salinity combined with high rotifer availability optimizes early larval rearing conditions for orange-spotted grouper.
Bita S, Dutta S. Effects of Salinity and Rotifer (Brachionus plicatilis, type S) Density on Growth and Survival of Orange-Spotted Grouper (Epinephelus coioides) Larvae. Ornamental Aquatics 2025; 12 (3) :23-32 URL: http://ornamentalaquatics.ir/article-1-390-en.html