Formulated Feeds for efficient Shrimp Larval Development

Algae and Artemia

Live algae and Artemia nauplii pose high with respect to introduction and thereafter and spread of pathogens.

Larval feeds should come from reliable suppliers certifying the absence of pathogens in both the product and raw materials.
The successful production of robust post larvae crucially relies on high-quality feed and adherence to a proper feeding schedule in the hatchery.
The transition of L. vannamei from larval stages to post larvae involves a complex metamorphosis, typically marked by migration to brackish estuaries.
This transition is accompanied by a shift in feeding behavior from herbivorous to omnivorous.
Growth and development of the digestive system lead to fluctuations in digestive enzyme production, resulting in varying nutritional requirements across larval stages.
Feed formulation and processing are customized to meet the specific needs of each larval stage.

Zoea Stages	Feed Character
Z1, Z2, Z3 First feeding Stages	Size range 5–30μm
Pelagic filter-feeder	High density of feed particles or Slow sinking
High energy turnover, 10–20 minutes gut passage time	Dry feeds are algal replacement diets
High lipase activity	Highly digestible feed

Mysis Stages	Feed Character
M1, M2,M3	High density of feed particles
	Size range: 30–90μm
Pelagic filter-feeder	Neutrally buoyant or slow-sinking particles
10–20 minutes gut passage time	Highly digestible feed
High protease and medium lipase activity	Moderate lipid level: 10–15% high protein 50-60%

Early post larval stages	Feed Character
PL1, PL2, PL3, PL4	Size range: 90–250μm
Omni / carnivorous, active, hunting behavior	Co-feeding of Artemia to live nauplii and formulated feed
15–20 mins gut passage time	Highly digestible feed
Low enzyme activity	Moderate lipid level 10-15% high protein 45-55%

Post larval stages	Feed Character
PL5 to PL 15	Size range: 300–500/800μm
Benthic feeder	Sinking feed
30 mins gut passage time	Moderately digestible feed
Increased digestive capacity	Low lipid level: 5–10% Moderate protein 40-45%