DESIGN AND OPERATION OF AN INCUBATOR FOR YOLK-SAC LARVAE OF ATLANTIC HALIBUT

A system design and operational procedures for rearing yolk-sac larvae of Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) were developed from 1 988 to 1992 at the Austevoll Aquaculture Research Station. The objecti ve has been to develop a method for mass rearing of yolk-sac larvae. T he method involves tanks with a cylindrical upper part and a conical l ower part. Water inflow at the bottom and exit through overflow sieves provide continuous exchange of water and no dead volume. Over the 5-y ear period, detailed operating procedures have been established. The s urvival of larvae through the yolk-sac stage has improved each year, a nd survival rates from 60 to 80% were achieved in 1992.