The development of oyster diets

Abstract

Although oyster larvae and spat have been reared successfully on algal diets for many decades, these are expensive to produce and do not always synchronize with hatchery requirements; considerable research has been conducted to determine which and why certain algal species are most appropriate and to investigate substitutes to algal feeds. Algal concentrates, commonly used in the United States, have overcome some problems associated with fresh algal feeds. However, work continues to develop cheaper non-algal alternatives. Recent promising advances have been in the formulation and preparation of experimental microencapsulated diets. However, further work upon capsules is required before the process can be commercialized. The possibility of rearing and substituting marine yeasts and bacteria for algae is an exciting and cost competitive alternative even to the microencapsulation approach.