Effect of the macroalga Caulerpa sertularioides on the development of Penaeus californiensis shrimp (Decapoda : Peneidae)

The effect of the macroalga Caulerpa sertularioides on the growth, survival and yield of captive yellowleg shrimp Penaeus californiensis (Holmes, 1900 ) at winter temperatures (14 to 21 degrees C) was studied at La Pat, B.C.S. , Mexico. Nine experimental units (three per treatment) consisting in 150 I -fiberglass tanks were used. Shrimp growth with macroalgal presence was 3.9 8 +/- 0.4 g after 10 weeks, survival was 100% and yield 36.24 +/- 4.3 g. Th ese results were better than those obtained with indirect presence, and abs ence of the macroalga, which were not different among themselves. Under ind irect macroalgal presence growth, survival and yield were 0.73 +/- 0.4 g, 7 5+/- 10% and 7.8 +/- 1.2 g. Without macroalgae, corresponding values were 0 .46 +/- 0.4 g, 68.7 +/- 12% and 5.6 +/-1.1 g. Significant differences were found between "absence" and "indirect presence". The macroalgae possitively affect the development of this shrimp in captivity.