Collection, storage, transport, and acclimation of milkfish fry and fingerlings

Abstract

The present methods of collecting fry and fingerlings involve filtration by mobile or stationary devices. The bottom topography of the fry ground, wind direction, and tidal fluctuations are the most important considerations in the design and construction of fry and fingerling catching gear. The behavior of young milkfish (Chanos chanos ) in the different environments where they are exploited determines the catching methods to be employed. Collection, handling, storage, and transport activities expose the fish to undue stress, which contributes to poor survival. The simple method of lowering the salinity of the water medium considerably reduces mortality. Prior acclimation history has significant effects on subsequent survival and adaptation. Although it appears that milkfish fry are more hardy than the fingerlings, both have the same capability for resisting subsequent environmental stress provided sufficient time is given for the fish to recover from previous stress.