Snakehead (Murrel) Captive Broodstock Development

Captive broodstock development is a critical aspect of aquaculture, particularly for species like the striped snakehead. By implementing standardized protocols and careful management practices, aquaculturists can optimize breeding responses and ensure successful seed production in hatchery conditions. In this guide, we'll explore the key components of captive broodstock development for striped snakehead, covering habitat setup, feeding regimes, induced breeding techniques, larval rearing, and seed production.

Habitat Setup and Feeding Regimes

To create optimal conditions for broodstock development, cement cisterns with suitable habitat features are utilized. The tank base is layered with soil, and floating aquatic macrophytes, such as Eichhornia crassipes, are added to mimic the natural environment. Broodstock are fed a balanced diet comprising live insects, prawns, small fish, and a formulated pelleted feed to meet their nutritional requirements.

Induced Breeding Techniques

During the spawning season, female and male striped snakeheads are distinguished based on secondary sexual characteristics. Hormonal injections, including HCG, carp pituitary gland extract (PGE), or Ovatide/Ovaprim, are administered to induce spawning. Careful temperature control and habitat optimization are essential for successful spawning, with fertilized eggs characterized by their spherical shape and yellow colour.

Larval Rearing and Seed Production

Larval feeding begins after the absorption of the yolk sac, with zooplankton or Artemia nauplii provided ad libitum. Survival rates in the nursery rearing stage are optimized through proper feeding and management practices. Striped snakehead fry is further reared in outdoor concrete tanks for fingerling production, with a diet comprising small crustaceans, powdered fish meal, and soya flour. Periodic segregation and separate rearing of shooters are essential to ensure high survival rates.

Conclusion

Mastering captive broodstock development for striped snakeheads requires attention to detail and adherence to standardized protocols. By implementing induced breeding techniques, proper larval rearing practices, and optimized nursery management, aquaculturists can enhance breeding success and seed production while maximizing survival rates from fry to fingerlings. With careful planning and execution, striped snakehead farming can be a lucrative venture in the aquaculture industry.