The effect of feeding frequency on lipid accumulation in ayu Plecoglos
sus altivelis was investigated by feeding fish (11g, initial body weig
ht) either once (group I), twice (group II), or four (group III) times
per day. The average weight of diet fed to groups I, II, and III were
3132, 4231, and 4090 g, respectively. There were no differences in bi
omass production and feed utilization among the groups. The average bo
dy weight was lowest in group I, reflecting low food intake. The lowes
t muscle triglyceride level was noted in the group fed four times a da
y. On the other hand, two feedings resulted in the highest triglycerid
e deposition in muscle. Feeding frequency did not influence the weight
of intraperitoneal fat body, but feeding four times resulted in the s
mallest cell size. Starvation for 16 days caused some differences in t
he mode of lipid mobilization among the groups. Body weight loss durin
g starvation decreased with increase in feeding frequency. It was conf
irmed that frequent feeding reduced lipid accumulation. This suggests
that lipid metabolism may be highly influenced by feeding frequency.