Feeding behavior and food preference of Penaeus monodon Fabricius with scrap Tilapia mossambica

Abstract

The time of day during which P. monodon feeds at different depth levels in earthen ponds, and its preference for three types of tilapia feeds (dry, fresh and fermented) were determined. It was observed that P. monodon concentrated at the bottom beds during the day and along the periphery of dikes during night-time, with a slight tendency to swim and feed towards the surface as darkness increased. P. monodon showed special preference for dried tilapia compared to fresh and fermented tilapia. P. monodon also showed adaptability to the platform method of feeding, especially during night-time.