Evaluation of different stocking densities for hybrid striped bass in small-scale recirculation systems

The maximum density of fish that can be grown in an aquacultural system is an important factor determining the economic feasibility of individual oper ations. conducted two separate studies with reciprocal-cross hybrid striped bass (striped bass Morone saxatilis X white bass M. chrysops) reared in a recirculating water system. Densities initially established in the first ex periment were 0.8, 1.4, 1.5, 1.9, 2.3, and 2.7 kg/m(3). At the end of 70 d, weight ain, feed efficiency, survival, and dress-out were not significantl y different among density groups. Standing crop increased significantly as stocking density increased; the highest density obtained was 28 kg/m(3). In the second experiment, initial densities of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, 12.5, and 15.0 kg/ml were established. After 86 d, mean weight gain, feed efficiency , and dress-out were not significantly different. Standing crop increased s ignificantly with increasing density; the highest mean value was 55.5 kg/m3 . Ash concentrations in the muscle of fish were significantly different in the first experiment but not in the second. Other proximate component value s were not significantly affected by treatment. It appears that hybrid stri ped bass can be initially stocked at 15.0 kg/m(3) in a recirculation system and grown to a final density of 55 kg/m(3) without impairing production ch aracteristics.