Short-tailed pipefish (Microphis brachyurus) juvenile culture: effect of stocking density on growth, survival and condition factor

ABSTRACT The present study aimed to test the effect of three stocking densities: 100, 200, and 300 ind m-3 (D100, D200, and D300, respectively) on survival, growth (weight and total length), and condition factor of Microphis brachyurus. At the end of the six-week trial, there were no significant differences in the fish's survival, growth, and condition. The results suggest that this species presents high adaptability under culture conditions. A suboptimal stocking density generates a suboptimal use of infrastructure and decreases the production system's profitability. Based on the present study, a stocking density of 300 ind m-3 is recommended to increase the aquaculture infrastructure's profitability for ornamental or conservation purposes.