Tropical Aquaculture
type: channel
description: Tropical Aquaculture is an international journal published continuously. It publishes original and previously unpublished Scientific Articles, Scientific Notes, and Review Articles, from researchers of any national or international educational institution or research center, in an electronic and printed open-access format. The journal aims to create a space for discussion and dissemination of results and advances of original and unpublished research on Aquaculture-related scientific developments in the tropics.
publisher: Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco
language: en
publication name: Tropical Aquaculture
issn: 3061-7642
items: Practical diets and stocking densities in the cultivation of juvenile Centropomus poeyi
items: Stock density, feeding, and water salinity for larval rearing of yellowtail tetra (Astyanax altiparanae)
items: Generational response to genetic improvement by weight in families of GIFT Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) under a mass selection and rotational mating scheme
items: Performance of seven lines of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus in cages and conventional ponds
items: Progress and Prospects in the Search for Anti-monogenean Compounds in Aquaculture
items: Biofilter efficiency and ultraviolet ligth on water quality and mortality in Litopenaeus vannamei culture
items: Frequency and distribution of fungal pathogens affecting teleost fish of commercial interest: a systematic review
items: The Seahorse (Hippocampus spp.) as a Model for Tropical Aquaculture with a Conservation Approach
items: Culture of Oreochromis niloticus and Tradescantia zebrina in an Aquaponic System, an Evaluation of Fecal Coliforms
items: Effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on growth performance and hematological parameter in commercial tilapia culture
items: New frontiers in the use of biotics in aquaculture:Towards advanced strategies beyond live microbial cultures
items: Evaluation of cassava leaf meal in GIFT Nile tilapia feed
items: Manipulated Photoperiod Enhances Sperm Production and Quality in Male Gray Snapper Lutjanus griseus (Linnaeus, 1758): A Potential Approach for Tropical Aquaculture
items: History and Perspectives of Mariculture in Mexico
items: Feeding the Future: The role of aquaculture in the tropics
items: Spawning Induction, Larviculture and Rearing of Mexican Snook Centropomus poeyi (Chávez, 1961)
items: Comparative study between live weight and sexual dimorphism in six generations of Nile tilapia GIFT
items: Productive performance of Clarias gariepinus fed alternative diets
items: Hermaphroditism in fish, an opportunity in aquaculture
items: The Mayan Cichlid, Mayaheros urophthalmus : Native Mesoamerican species, with high aquaculture potential
items: An overview of feeding strategies and challenges in tropical aquaculture
items: First record of the Lymphocystis Mayaheros uropthalmus in Balancán, Tabasco, México.
items: Control of horizontal transmission of white spot syndrome virus by ultraviolet light
items: Aquaculture extension services: an urgent necessity
items: Opening Letter
items: Behavioral repertoire of Arapaima gigas (Schinz, 1822) reared in captivity and its implication for welfare protocols
items: Evaluation of cassava meal as substitute for wheat in the feeding Clarias gariepinus
items: Totoaba, a species with great potential for mexican mariculture
items: Genetic merit evaluation of second-generation Nile tilapia (GIFT)

Practical diets and stocking densities in the cultivation of juvenile Centropomus poeyi
type: item
description: Two 60-day experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of different diets and stocking densities on juvenile Centropomus poeyi. Three diets were tested: poultry by-product meal (POU), pork by-product meal (POR), and a commercial control diet (CD). The pork by-product meal diet yielded the highest final weight (12.48 g ± 3.54) and total length (11.83 cm ± 1.18), with survival rates across treatments ranging from 75% to 95%. In the second experiment, three stocking densities were assessed using the optimal diet from the first experiment. The highest density resulted in the greatest weight gain (18.52 g ± 4.42) and average length (13.55 cm ± 0.91), with survival rates ranging from 94.44% to 100%. These findings suggest that pork by-product meal may be a promising ingredient for juvenile C. poeyi diets under the conditions evaluated, and that juveniles can be managed at a density of 12 fish/m³. However, this density should be further evaluated in relation to the experimental duration and the system's carrying capacity.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: Growth performance
  topic: keywords
subject: feed conversion ratio
  topic: keywords
subject: protein replacement
  topic: keywords
subject: by-product meal
  topic: keywords
creator: Jenny Vázquez-Gómez
creator: Wilfrido Miguel Contreras-Sánchez
creator: María J. Contreras-García
creator: Alejandro Mcdonal-Vera
creator: Leonardo Cruz-Rosado
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-07-24
publication date: 2026-07-24
starting page: 1
ending page: 12
doi: 10.19136/ta.a4n1.5762

Stock density, feeding, and water salinity for larval rearing of yellowtail tetra (Astyanax altiparanae)
type: item
description: One of the critical points in fish rearing is larviculture, a phase that requires suitable food for first feeding. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of three variables on the larviculture of the yellowtail tetra Astyanax altiparanae: 1) type of Artemia franciscana nauplii used for feeding (Fresh, frozen and freeze-dried); 2) salinity (0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.6% NaCl); and 3) stocking density (50, 100, 150, and 200 larvae/L-1). Growth and survival were evaluated over 10 days. On day 10, larvae fed with Artemia nauplii (fresh) had a higher length and survival rate when compared with other treatments (P= 0.0012). Water at 0.4% and 0.6% NaCl showed significantly (P = 0.0010) lower and no survival, respectively. Lower density (50 larvae L-1) showed the greater length (7.73 ± 0.08 mm) and the highest density (200 larvae L-1) presented the lower length (5.86 ± 0.10 mm). These results are innovative for this species, opening up new larviculture possibilities for laboratory and aquaculture purposes.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: Artemia sp
  topic: keywords
subject: Characin
  topic: keywords
subject: first feeding
  topic: keywords
subject: fish
  topic: keywords
subject: larviculture
  topic: keywords
creator: Rafaela Manchin-Bertolini
creator: Nivaldo Ferreira do Nascimento
creator: Lucia Suárez López
creator: Gabriel Marra Schade
creator: Juliana Dias Bastos-Xavier
creator: Emy Yano
creator: Jose Augusto Senhorini
creator: Matheus Pereira dos Santos
creator: George Shigueki Yasui
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-30
publication date: 2025-07-30
starting page: e5745
ending page: e5745
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n1.5745

Generational response to genetic improvement by weight in families of GIFT Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) under a mass selection and rotational mating scheme
type: item
description: Studies on tilapia indicate that body weight has moderate to high heritability. When applied to selective breeding programs focused on weight improvement in this species, these findings have enabled evaluation of growth performance and generational behavior using the individual multi-stage selection method described in the GIFT Technology Manual (WorldFish Center, 2004). Weight values remained within a central range due to the staggered incorporation of family groups, the mass selection process for the weight trait, the effective population size of each family group, and the implementation of rotational crossing, which allowed for variability and the gradual improvement of quantitative traits around the population mean. The average weights of successive generations of family groups, along with their growth patterns, showed a consistent increase from one generation to the next, reaching a weight range of 500-700 g. A broodstock weight classification is proposed: females were grouped into three categories: High (600 g), Medium (400–500 g), and Low (300 g). Males were classified as High (900–1000 g) and Medium (700 g). The objective of this study is to determine the weight performance of generational family groups of GIFT Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) resulting from selective improvement, and to apply a classification method for families based on weight and sex as a tool for implementing inter-family mating strategies.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: line selection
  topic: keywords
subject: family groups
  topic: keywords
subject: weight
  topic: keywords
subject: generations
  topic: keywords
subject: phenotypic performance
  topic: keywords
creator: Teresa Damas Pérez
creator: Daylen Barrueta López
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-02-19
publication date: 2026-02-19
starting page: e5752
ending page: e5752
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n2.5752

Performance of seven lines of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus in cages and conventional ponds
type: item
description: Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of seven lines of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, provided by various farms in the region. Performance was measured and compared among lines as: growth, survival, masculinization rate and health status. For the first experiment, we evaluated seven tilapia lines; fish were randomly allocated in triplicate 2x1x1m-floating cages at an initial density of 1000 fish per cage. Densities were adjusted as the fish grew. The results showed significant differences (p <0.01) in growth and survival. Health status showed differences as well. In the second experiment, we evaluated the top four lines of the first experiment. In this case, fish were stocked in duplicate at random in 10x5x1m-concrete ponds at a density of 1000 fish per pond. The density was reduced to 500 fish per pond half time through the experiment. The results indicate that the lines Tabasco and Chitralada had the highest final weight with 301.11 and 291.30g, respectively; an FCA of 1.1 for both lines, a survival of 95%, and a masculinization rate around 99.4%. In terms of health indicators, we identified the presence of different species of bacteria and parasites in all lines tested.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: Tilapia farming
  topic: keywords
subject: production systems
  topic: keywords
subject: line selection
  topic: keywords
subject: growth
  topic: keywords
creator: Raquel Hernández Jiménez
creator: Wilfrido Miguel Contreras-Sánchez
creator: María Contreras-García
creator: Alejandro Mcdonal Vera
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-03
publication date: 2025-12-03
starting page: e5748
ending page: e5748
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n1.5748

Progress and Prospects in the Search for Anti-monogenean Compounds in Aquaculture
type: item
description: Monogeneans are among the most important groups of parasites affecting cultured fish due to their rapid transmission and proliferation. This narrative review presents strategies for monogenean control and discusses the challenges of discovering new antiparasitic treatments. Although several chemical compounds and anthelmintics have demonstrated efficacy against these parasites, their use may be limited by toxicity, potential environmental impacts, and the risk of resistance development. Plant-derived compounds have also been evaluated as potential alternatives; however, available evidence indicates considerable variation in their efficacy and safety. Given the large number of compounds with potential antiparasitic activity and the costs associated with their experimental evaluation, there is growing interest in approaches that can improve the identification and selection of promising candidates. In this context, the potential of omics resources, bioinformatics, and computational approaches to identify therapeutic targets and prioritize candidate compounds before experimental testing is discussed. Recent studies on monogeneans demonstrate that these tools can facilitate the identification of compounds with antiparasitic activity and support a more efficient discovery of new treatments. These advances highlight the growing role of computational approaches in antiparasitic research and their potential contribution to more sustainable research strategies in aquaculture.
subject: Review Article
  topic: section
subject: helminths
  topic: keywords
subject: parasites
  topic: keywords
subject: aquaculture
  topic: keywords
subject: fish
  topic: keywords
subject: health
  topic: keywords
subject: control
  topic: keywords
creator: Francisco Neptalí Morales-Serna
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-08-14
publication date: 2026-08-14
starting page: e5763
ending page: e5763
doi: 10.19136/ta.a4n1.5763

Biofilter efficiency and ultraviolet ligth on water quality and mortality in Litopenaeus vannamei culture
type: item
description: La calidad del agua es una de las principales causas del fracaso en los proyectos de cultivo de camarón. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar la eficiencia de un sistema de biofiltración. Para ello se evaluaron parámetros como nitrógeno amónico, pH, acidez, alcalinidad y mortalidad. Se utilizaron seis estanques de 1 ha con 1,8 m de profundidad de agua, cubiertos con techo plástico (invernaderos), en los cuales se sembraron cuatro millones doscientos mil juveniles de camarón de la especie Litopenaeus vannamei. Tres estanques fueron equipados con una bomba de agua y sistemas FINI-FALCO. El sustrato utilizado en el FINI-FALCO fueron conchas de ostra y en cada tanque se añadió cloruro de amonio a una concentración de 1 ppm cada 24 h/L durante 20 días. Los resultados demostraron diferencias significativas (P < 0,05) en pH, amonio, nitrito y nitrato entre los tanques después de 28 días. El uso de FINI-FALCO reduce los niveles de amonio y nitrito, y las fluctuaciones en el pH observadas se debieron al proceso de nitrificación. Las mortalidades entre los tratamientos se redujeron, pero no fueron significativas.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: biofilter
  topic: keywords
subject: ultraviolet ligth
  topic: keywords
subject: nitrifying bacteria
  topic: keywords
subject: Litopenaeus
  topic: keywords
subject: Litopenaeus vannamei
  topic: keywords
subject: water quality
  topic: keywords
creator: Pablo González-Alanis
creator: Kevin M. Fitzsimmons
creator: Sandra Elizabeth Hernández-Mendez
creator: Liduvina Vázquez-Ruiz
creator: Ana Lucía Urbizu-Gonzalez
creator: Jaime Luis Rábago-Castro
creator: Gabriela Leticia Arvizu-Cruz
creator: Mirelly Venecia Mireles-Villanueva
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-02-13
publication date: 2026-02-13
starting page: e5755
ending page: e5755
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n2.5755

Frequency and distribution of fungal pathogens affecting teleost fish of commercial interest: a systematic review
type: item
description: Activities such as aquaculture and fishing provide employment and food for different populations around the world; however, teleost fish are susceptible to fungal infections that compromise their utilization. The objective of this work was to analyse the frequency of fungal infection in commercial teleost fish through a systematic review. A total of 26 articles were included in the data analysis; from these, 1 409 fish were identified as positive for fungi. This interaction involved 25 teleost species and 24 fungal species. The main host species were Oreochromis niloticus and Salmo salar, with 574 (40.73 %) and 539 (38.25 %) positive fish, respectively, while the most frequent fungus was Saprolegnia spp. (882 positive fish and 62.59 %) at the genus level and Saprolegnia parasitica (463 positive fish and 32.86 %) at the species level. In general, the positive fish were from aquaculture (1,265 positive fish, 89.77 %). The fungi were identified mainly by molecular techniques (837 positive fish, 59.40 %), where the class Oomycota was the most frequent (1,372 positive fish, 97.37 %). The profile of the fungal infection, as well as the analysis of the relationship between teleost fish and pathogenic fungi, are essential for establishing health monitoring strategies for these high-impact infections in fish populations.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: Fungi
  topic: keywords
subject: Parasite
  topic: keywords
subject: Ascomycota
  topic: keywords
subject: Oomycota
  topic: keywords
subject: Saprolegnia spp
  topic: keywords
creator: Andrea Paloma Zepeda Velázquez
creator: Aylen Miranda Meneses
creator: Rosario Estefanía Ayala Vázquez
creator: Jorge Luis de la Rosa Arana
creator: Fabian Ricardo Gómez de Anda
creator: Víctor Johan Osvaldo Acosta Pérez
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-03-03
publication date: 2026-03-03
starting page: e5759
ending page: e5759
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n2.5759

The Seahorse (Hippocampus spp.) as a Model for Tropical Aquaculture with a Conservation Approach
type: item
description: Aquaculture in tropical regions has historically been promoted under frameworks oriented toward economic profitability, while biodiversity conservation has been treated as a separate sphere from the productive use of natural resources. This dichotomy is particularly problematic in tropical coastal-estuarine contexts, where the well-being of human communities and the integrity of ecosystems are closely interconnected. This paper proposes Hippocampus spp. as a model for conservation-oriented tropical aquaculture, not aimed at industrial production, but at the use of cultivation as a tool for conservation, environmental education, and the generation of diversified social and economic benefits. The model is structured around three core components: (i) Hippocampus spp. as a flagship species and an articulating organism linking biodiversity, knowledge, and territory; (ii) a tripartite governance framework based on the functional articulation among organized communities, academic institutions, and the State; and (iii) a logic of multiple benefit flows, in which ecological, social, and indirect economic returns are prioritized over the maximization of production volumes. The cultivation of Hippocampus spp. is highlighted as a socioecological sustainability model in the face of the socioenvironmental crisis, integrating conservation, responsible use of biodiversity, and territorial well-being in tropical contexts, based on a conceptual and synthetic review of the specialized scientific literature
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: Hippocampus spp
  topic: keywords
creator: Nicolas Vite Garcia
creator: Ana Luisa Barrera González
creator: Lenin Rangel López
creator: Martha Alicia Perera García
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-05-27
publication date: 2026-05-27
starting page: 1
ending page: 14
doi: 10.19136/ta.a4n1.5760

Culture of Oreochromis niloticus and Tradescantia zebrina in an Aquaponic System, an Evaluation of Fecal Coliforms
type: item
description: Aquaponics offers a sustainable way to produce fresh food; however, if not properly managed, there may be a risk of contamination by fecal coliforms. This study evaluated the presence of fecal coliforms in small-scale aquaponic systems using Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia) and Tradescantia zebrina (matalí) as model organisms. Three aquaponic systems equipped with biofilters were compared with three closed recirculating aquaculture systems without biofilters, which served as control groups. Each 200-L aquaponic system was divided into two areas: an aquaculture zone for tilapia and a hydroponic zone for matalí. In the hydroponic zone, tezontle (volcanic rock) was used as the biofilter medium to remediate water contaminated with fish waste. Parameters such as ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, dissolved oxygen, and temperature were measured, while the presence of fecal coliforms was determined according to Standard 042 (SCFI, 2015). Statistical analyses were performed using the Kruskal–Wallis test. The results indicated that the biofilters reduced the presence of fecal coliforms by 98% in the aquaculture zone and by 90% in the effluent water from the hydroponic zone. Coliform levels in the aquaponic systems remained below the detection limit (<3 MPN/100 mL), whereas a higher presence of these microorganisms was recorded in the control aquaculture systems.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: biofilter
  topic: keywords
subject: denitrification
  topic: keywords
subject: nitrification
  topic: keywords
subject: pathogenic microorganisms
  topic: keywords
subject: Technique NMP/100 mL
  topic: keywords
creator: José Emmanuel Gómez-Mora
creator: José Ramón Laines-Canepa
creator: Rudy Solís-Silván
creator: José Roberto Hernández-Barajas
creator: Gabriel Nuñez-Nogueira
creator: José Aurelio Sosa-Olivier
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-04-24
publication date: 2024-04-24
starting page: 9
ending page: 21
doi: 10.19136/ta.a1n2.5724

Effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on growth performance and hematological parameter in commercial tilapia culture
type: item
description: In Mexico, fish farming is moving towards a trend towards sustainability, which means that production and the products obtained increase in quality and quantity, reducing the environmental impact. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (commercial probiotic Blue Booster®) through two treatments under a completely randomised design; 36 broodstock/m3 were stocked in 69 m3 geomembrane ponds, which were supplied with Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast for 150 days at a concentration of 1x109 CFU mL-1 and a Control treatment (CT) without the addition of the yeast. Growth and haematological variables were determined in the fish, and water quality parameters were determined. Water quality remained within the ranges considered normal for the species' culture, showing that the Blue Booster® (BB) treatment had better growth performance and water quality. Yeast-treated fish showed an average weight of 499.0 g (± 59.6), with an average length of 26.1cm (± 1.36), being significantly different from the Control treatment (p< 0.05). It was observed that the hematocrit percentage was higher for the BB treatment, at 44.3%, and survival was 94.0%. The results showed that with the application of this probiotic technology, the water quality is maintained in optimal conditions and the productive parameters are improved, in addition to reducing the frequency of water replacement in the culture ponds, which is a direct benefit for the producer.
subject: Artículo de Investigación Original
  topic: section
subject: Probiótico comercial
  topic: keywords
subject: levadura
  topic: keywords
subject: tilapia
  topic: keywords
subject: ciclo de cultivo
  topic: keywords
creator: Carolina Esther Melgar-Valdés
creator: Lidia Noemi Urquilla Ortiz
creator: Alfonso Castillo-Domínguez
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-10-09
publication date: 2024-10-09
starting page: 26
ending page: 36
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n1.5735

New frontiers in the use of biotics in aquaculture:Towards advanced strategies beyond live microbial cultures
type: item
description: The intensification of aquaculture, driven by market demand, necessitates strategies to maintain environmental health and ensure the industry's sustainability. In this context, the success of aquaculture operations is closely linked to feed costs and quality, and profitability depends directly on feed efficiency, growth rate, and pathogen resistance (Pepi & Focardi, 2021). However, intensification increases the risk of infectious disease outbreaks, which represents a significant constraint on sustainable industry growth. Consequently, there is urgent pressure to reduce antibiotic use in intensive systems, as excessive use contributes to the emergence of resistant bacterial strains and to undesirable levels of environmental residues (Lulijwa et al., 2020). Under these circumstances, probiotics have emerged as a key strategy for preventing certain bacterial diseases in fish.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
creator: Patricia Martinez Cruz
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-01-23
publication date: 2026-01-23
starting page: e5754
ending page: e5754
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n2.5754

Evaluation of cassava leaf meal in GIFT Nile tilapia feed
type: item
description: Due to a growing interest in the use of local resources for fish feed, different inclusion levels (0, 6, 9, and 12 %) of cassava leaf meal (CLM) in the feeding of Nile tilapia GIFT (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerling were evaluated. A total of 144 animals, with an average initial weight of 0.36 ± 0.01 g, were utilized in the study. These animals were randomly assigned to four treatments with three replicates and analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Duncan’s test at the 5% probability level, as necessary. The treatments consisted of four diets: the tilapia fingerling feed formulation (control) and the remaining diets with 6, 9, and 12 % CLM as partial replacements for the soybean and wheat meals in the control. No statistical differences were found in the amounts of feed (14.01, 13.36, 12.90, and 13.52 g) and protein supplied (4.32, 4.11, 3.91, and 4.02 g) per animal. Also, the final weights (6.50, 6.15, 6.13, and 5.98 g) and feed conversion ratio (2.28, 2.30, 2.22, and 2.38) were not affected by treatment (p > 0.05). Survival was appropriate across all diets (greater than 91,67 %). Feed costs and economic benefits favored all CLM treatments. The most significant savings were achieved at 9% (US$ 105.44 per ton). The inclusion of up to 12% cassava leaf meal does not compromise the productivity of GIFT Nile tilapia fingerlings and has a positive economic effect.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: carbohydrate
  topic: keywords
subject: circular economy
  topic: keywords
subject: local raw materials
  topic: keywords
subject: fish
  topic: keywords
creator: José E. Llanes - Iglesias
creator: Pedro H. Toledo - Agüero
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-01-30
publication date: 2026-01-30
starting page: e5753
ending page: e5753
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n2.5753

Manipulated Photoperiod Enhances Sperm Production and Quality in Male Gray Snapper Lutjanus griseus (Linnaeus, 1758): A Potential Approach for Tropical Aquaculture
type: item
description: Photoperiod manipulation has been used as an alternative non-invasive method to stimulate sexual maturation in fish. It consists mainly in influencing spatially and temporally the physiological control of the animal over its reproductive period. There are few studies on the effect of photoperiod in male fish and much less for tropical climates. Because of this, the present study focused on inducing gonadic maturation in male grey snapper (Lutjanus griseus), manipulating the duration of the sexual maturation season of five months into two months; the compressed months were March to July. From the fourth week of March (12h and 30 min light), adjustments of 2.4 minutes per day were made until reaching the hours of light corresponding to the maximum estimated peak in the year (13h and 42 min light). All fish confined under artificial photoperiod had a significant response in sperm production. In addition, greater fluidity and greater sperm motility were observed, with a higher number of sperm cells than in the natural photoperiod. These results will allow extending the months of reproductive management of this species using controlled photoperiod.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: controlled photoperiod
  topic: keywords
subject: gray snapper
  topic: keywords
subject: males
  topic: keywords
subject: Reproductive manipulation
  topic: keywords
creator: Martha de Jesús Jiménez-Peralta
creator: Wilfrido Miguel Contreras-Sánchez
creator: María de Jesús Contreras-García
creator: María Leandra Salvadores-Baledón
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2023-09-04
publication date: 2023-09-04
starting page: 2
ending page: 12
doi: 10.19136/ta.a1n1.5722

History and Perspectives of Mariculture in Mexico
type: item
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
creator: Rodrigo Martínez-Moreno
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2023-09-14
publication date: 2023-09-14
starting page: 1
ending page: 4
doi: 10.19136/ta.a1n1.5727

Feeding the Future: The role of aquaculture in the tropics
type: item
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
creator: Wilfrido Miguel Contreras-Sánchez
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2023-09-25
publication date: 2023-09-25
starting page: 5
ending page: 8
doi: 10.19136/ta.a1n1.5728

Spawning Induction, Larviculture and Rearing of Mexican Snook Centropomus poeyi (Chávez, 1961)
type: item
description: The Mexican snook (Centropomus poeyi) constitutes an essential artisanal fishery in coastal areas of Mexico containing rivers that discharge into the Gulf of Mexico, and it is considered overfished in general; therefore, aquaculture can provide alternatives to this situation. Induced spawning and Larviculture have been developed in our laboratory for this critical endemic species. Using cholesterol-cellulose implants with LHRH-a, spawning is initiated 30 hours after implantation. A total of 9.5 million fertilized eggs were collected, averaging 700.35 µm in diameter. The fertilization rate was 90%, and the hatching rate was 85%. Two hundred thirteen thousand fish were fed according to a protocol generated for this species, using microalgae, rotifers, and Artemia nauplii. Weaning is initiated 15 days post-hatching using a co-feeding regime combining live food and inert diets designed for marine fish. Survival at the end of the larval period was 1.8%, with fish feeding exclusively on artificial food and acclimated to freshwater.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: Induced reproduction
  topic: keywords
subject: Larviculture
  topic: keywords
subject: Centropomus poeyi
  topic: keywords
creator: María de Jesús Contreras-García
creator: Wilfrido Miguel Contreras-Sánchez
creator: Alejandro Mcdonal-Vera
creator: Leonardo Cruz-Rosado
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-08-07
publication date: 2024-08-07
starting page: 7
ending page: 14
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n1.5729

Comparative study between live weight and sexual dimorphism in six generations of Nile tilapia GIFT
type: item
description: The present investigation focused on the results obtained to evaluate the traits of live weight and sex through comparative analysis based on the number of generations. A total of 86 groups of GIFT Nile tilapia families were obtained along six generations of the genetic improvement program in Cuba. It was observed how the average live weight of the fish increased when passing from one generation to the next. The best results were found in generations five and six with values greater than 500 g (514 g and 612 g, respectively). A regression analysis was performed, obtaining a coefficient of determination (R2) of 60.9 %, demonstrating that the generation and sex effects explain approximately 61 % of the phenotypic variability shown by the live weight trait. At the same time, the superiority of the males was evident since the beginning of the genetic improvement program, with an average weight of 776 g in the males and 470 g in the females. The main result was a significant increase in live weight in GIFT Nile tilapia with the advance of the selective program applied to both sexes, showing superiority for males.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: sexual dimorphism
  topic: keywords
subject: family group
  topic: keywords
subject: Oreochromis niloticus
  topic: keywords
subject: phenotypic variability
  topic: keywords
creator: Daylen Virgen Barrueta-López
creator: Teresa de Jesus Damas-Pérez
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-12-11
publication date: 2024-12-11
starting page: 12
ending page: 21
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n2.5732

Productive performance of Clarias gariepinus fed alternative diets
type: item
description: Due to the growing need for new food formulations with local ingredients, the productive behavior of 72 juvenile of Clarias gariepinus (100.16 ± 1.72 g initial weight) fed with different diets during the fattening period was evaluated. A completely randomized design of three treatments with three repetitions and Duncan significance test at 5 % probability was used. The treatments were the control (commercial food, AC) and two humid diets with fishery by-products and broken soybeans and as energy source, one with cassava meal (HY) and the other with wheat bran (ST). The amounts of crude protein supplied per fish were similar between the control and cassava meal diet (78.9, 77.0 y 88.4 g). Growth did not show differences between the diets (final weights of 291.43, 284.21 and 241.29 g). The feed conversion was unfavorable with the humid diets (1.23, 1.81 y 2.21), while the protein efficiency was the same for the control and the diet with cassava meal (2.41, 2.40 y 1.61). Survivals were 100% for all treatments. The economic analysis showed monetary savings due to feeding with humid diets ($ CUP 17,316 y 14,543), since they were made from by-products available in the territory and there was no significant variation in the zootechnical indicators. It is concluded that alternative diets promoted good productive behaviors in juveniles of C. gariepinus, with a positive economic effect.
subject: Scientific note
  topic: section
subject: food
  topic: keywords
subject: catfish
  topic: keywords
subject: local
  topic: keywords
subject: byproducts
  topic: keywords
creator: José Llanes-Iglesias
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-12-22
publication date: 2024-12-22
starting page: 22
ending page: 31
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n2.5731

Hermaphroditism in fish, an opportunity in aquaculture
type: item
description: Hermaphroditism is defined as a reproductive strategy involving male and female functions in the same individual. This may occur simultaneously or sequentially, and it is present in the major taxonomic divisions of plants and is common in several Metazoans. In fish, these sexual transitions occur due to growth, survival, and reproductive trade-offs, and it has been documented in more than 450 species. In aquaculture terms, managing sex-changing species is complicated because the timing and causes of sex change in hermaphrodite fish are poorly understood, complicating planned reproductive events and meeting production goals. However, applying biotechnological processes such as sex reversal utilizing steroids could represent an advantage in obtaining organisms of the “desired” sex to obtain gametes and, therefore, make the use of aquaculture facilities more efficient.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
subject: Hermaphroditism
  topic: keywords
subject: Aquaculture
  topic: keywords
subject: Reproduction
  topic: keywords
creator: María J. Contreras-García
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-08-07
publication date: 2024-08-07
starting page: 1
ending page: 6
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n1.5734

The Mayan Cichlid, Mayaheros urophthalmus : Native Mesoamerican species, with high aquaculture potential
type: item
description: Aquaculture allows food production, bringing important social and economic benefits that result in high nutritional value and accessible costs for the population. Mexico has a great diversity of native species with great potential for this activity, such as the Mayan cichlid, Mayaheros urophthalmus. The present bibliographic review was carried out in Google Scholar, libraries and the institutional repository of the Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco on the advances in the knowledge of the biology, fishery and aquaculture potential of the mojarra castarrica. Among the results, it was found that 60% of them are focused on the biology and ecology of the species, highlighting that it is an omnivorous fish with a carnivorous tendency that normally feeds on fish and invertebrates, presents an important fecundity, reproducing several times during the warm months. The fishery status of the beaver is uncertain; at present, catches are reported as encompassing all cichlids, so there is no basis to indicate its status. However, fishermen report low catches. In aquaculture, there are advances in culture, nutrition and biotechnological aspects, with larval culture being identified as one of the critical phases of development. In the grow-out stage, it can be cultivated in cages, geomembranes or earthen ponds, using a feed containing between 32 and 45% protein. Progress has been made in nutrition, but there is still no feed specifically designed for this species. Many more studies are required to determine its fishing and aquaculture potential.
subject: Review Article
  topic: section
subject: Mayan cichlid
  topic: keywords
subject: biology
  topic: keywords
subject: ecology
  topic: keywords
subject: aquaculture
  topic: keywords
subject: fishery
  topic: keywords
creator: Mario Fernandez-Pérez
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-10-14
publication date: 2024-10-14
starting page: 37
ending page: 62
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n1.5736

An overview of feeding strategies and challenges in tropical aquaculture
type: item
description: Feeding accounts for more than 50% of the operating costs of commercial tropical aquaculture species such as tilapia and shrimp, while costs are difficult to estimate for emerging species, such as snooks and native cichlids, which are still under biotechnological development. Optimizing diets and feeding practices is essential to ensure the profitability and sustainability of the growing aquaculture industry. Specialized diets for critical stages such as reproduction and larval rearing are costly but justified by improved offspring quality and larval growth. However, the lack of specific feeds for emerging species forces the use of generic diets, such as those developed for tilapia or trout, which may not meet optimal nutritional requirements. This approach limits the productive evaluation of these species and, in the long term, the development of specific diets for commercialization. Dietary improvements include new ingredients and technological processes that increase efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. For example, the inclusion of animal meals has improved the acceptability of diets for carnivorous species. However, the design of feeding protocols remains challenging, particularly for larvae where live feed is common but costly. Genetics and environmental management are determining factors in the production performance of commercial species. In Mexico, the limited genetic acclimatization of imported tilapia has led to challenges such as diseases and stress episodes that affect growth and discourage investment. Integrating biotechnologies such as probiotics and prebiotics has shown benefits in the integrated management of the culture, reducing stress, improving feed efficiency, and reducing environmental impact. It is necessary to emphasize the generation of informed strategies that consider local resources and global information to minimize environmental and social risks and promote responsible and sustainable aquaculture that balances e…
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
subject: Aquaculture feed
  topic: keywords
subject: biotechnologies
  topic: keywords
subject: emerging species
  topic: keywords
subject: integrated crop management
  topic: keywords
subject: sustainability
  topic: keywords
creator: Ulises Hernandez-Vidal
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-12-11
publication date: 2024-12-11
starting page: 1
ending page: 4
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n2.5740

First record of the Lymphocystis Mayaheros uropthalmus in Balancán, Tabasco, México.
type: item
description: A new record for freshwater environments is reported in six organisms of the native species Mayaheros urophthalmus collected in the municipality of Balancán, Tabasco, Mexico. It represents the first record of this viral lymphocytic infection in a native cichlid of economic and ecological importance. Its presence indicates the status of aquaculture health in the area, due to the time of year, its incidence or degree of infection responds to its environmental distribution influenced by temperature, stress and environmental contamination.
subject: Scientific note
  topic: section
subject: lymphocytosis
  topic: keywords
subject: native cichlid
  topic: keywords
subject: viral disease
  topic: keywords
creator: Alfonso Castillo-Domínguez
creator: Carolina Esther Melgar Valdes
creator: Raúl Enrique Hernández-Gómez
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-12-27
publication date: 2024-12-27
starting page: 32
ending page: 36
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n2.5743

Control of horizontal transmission of white spot syndrome virus by ultraviolet light
type: item
description: Bacterial and viral diseases are common problems in aquaculture. The use of flow-through systems frequently represents a risk of contamination by introducing pathogenic microorganisms, resulting in diseases that economically damage the industry. White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) causes a shrimp disease responsible for substantial economic losses in many countries. The present study was conducted to determine if the specific pathogen-free (SPF) indicator shrimp might take WSSV from infected water flow after treatment with UV light: specific pathogen-free L. vannamei shrimp, 2.5-g avg Wt, were acclimated to 25 UPS artificial seawater. Once acclimated, they were distributed in four pairs of tanks (20/tank). Each pair of tanks had one tank infected by per os and one exposed to water from the infected tank. Water flow from the per os infected tank was pumped to the non-infected tank and returned to the per os infected tank by gravity. Two pairs of tanks had UV light (G15T8) to irradiate the flow of water before passing it to the non-infected tank. The other two pairs of tanks (control group) had no UV light irradiation to the recirculating water. Moribund and dead shrimp were collected and frozen to determine if they were infected with WSSV by using PCR. After 12 days of shrimp in, the tanks exposed to water contaminated with WSSV and treated with UV did not have any mortality. The water contaminated with WSSV and not treated with UV resulted in significant numbers of WSSV-infected and dead shrimp. This study demonstrated that it is possible to eliminate the transmission of WSSV by treating the water with UV.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: WSSV
  topic: keywords
subject: biosecurity
  topic: keywords
subject: aquaculture
  topic: keywords
subject: pathogens
  topic: keywords
subject: Pacific shrim
  topic: keywords
creator: Pablo González-Alanis
creator: Kevin M Fitzsimmons
creator: Maria de la Luz Vazquez Sauceda
creator: Flaviano Benavidez González
creator: Ana Lucía Urbizu González
creator: Jesus Humberto Reyna Fuentes
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-01
publication date: 2025-12-01
starting page: e5750
ending page: e5750
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n1.5750

Aquaculture extension services: an urgent necessity
type: item
description: The growing global demand for food has positioned aquaculture as a key activity for food security. In this context, aquaculture extension —understood as technical support and knowledge transfer to producers— takes on great importance. Its purpose is to support small-scale producers in becoming self-sufficient. This activity faces limitations due to the lack of specific public policies, scarce resources, and mistrust on the part of producers. In Mexico, extension services have been based on the US model, evolving toward a multifunctional approach that considers social, political, economic, and environmental dimensions. Despite its potential, aquaculture extension is still in its infancy and is generally merged with agricultural extension, which has hampered its specific development and effectiveness. Challenges include limited technological infrastructure, producers' lack of knowledge of fundamental technical aspects, and low investment in applied research. In addition, a lack of trust in extension workers, coupled with the poor adaptation of knowledge to the real conditions of producers, prevents a true conversion of knowledge into productivity. It is concluded that extension services must be professional, adapted to the local context, and supported by public policies and investment in research. Only then will it be possible to harness Mexico's aquaculture potential sustainably, promoting innovation, profitability, and well-being for rural communities.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
subject: Aquaculture development
  topic: keywords
subject: Knowledge dissemination
  topic: keywords
subject: Rural extension systems
  topic: keywords
subject: Aquatic food security
  topic: keywords
creator: Alejandro Mcdonal-Vera
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2026-05-20
publication date: 2026-05-20
starting page: 1
ending page: 4
doi: 10.19136/ta.a4n1.5749

Opening Letter
type: item
subject: Opening Letter
  topic: section
creator: Wilfrido M. Contreras -Sánchez
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2023-09-06
publication date: 2023-09-06
starting page: 1
ending page: 1
doi: 10.19136/ta.a1n1.5726

Behavioral repertoire of Arapaima gigas (Schinz, 1822) reared in captivity and its implication for welfare protocols
type: item
description: The well-being of farmed fish has gained considerable attention in the last few decades, and finding suitable indicators of fish welfare is particularly challenging assumed the diversity of species, each with unique biological needs and requirements. Understanding the behavioral patterns of farmed fish species is crucial in developing behavior-based measures to maintain their welfare and production. However, there is limited scientific documentation on the behavioral repertoire of Arapaima gigas, a commercially valuable and widely farmed species in South America. We provide an ethogram of A. gigas when reared in captivity within a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) indoors. Observations were conducted on a group of adult individuals (one male, two females) kept at the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries in Berlin, Germany. The ethogram describes five main behavioral categories: locomotion, feeding, social interactions, agonistic interactions, and breathing. Notably, Arapaima displayed a strong preference for resting motionless, often near a gravel bed area provided inside the rearing tank. Agonistic interactions were rare and mostly initiated solely by the male during feeding sessions. During feeding, pellet food was often picked from the ground, while whole fish feed (dead Tilapia) was mostly swallowed immediately from the surface. The male consistently occupied the provided gravel area as its territory, spending most of its time there. With this ethogram, we aim to contribute to the limited behavioral knowledge about A. gigas, especially when in captivity. Our findings offer valuable insights into species-specific welfare evaluations and enhancement measures with potential applications in healthy aquaculture practices.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: giant arapaima
  topic: keywords
subject: pirarucu
  topic: keywords
subject: paiche
  topic: keywords
subject: animal welfare
  topic: keywords
subject: aquaculture
  topic: keywords
subject: behavior
  topic: keywords
creator: Alessandra Escurra-Alegre
creator: Fritz A. Francisco
creator: Fabian Schäfer
creator: Sven Wuertz
creator: Werner Kloas
creator: David Bierbach
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-09-03
publication date: 2024-09-03
starting page: 15
ending page: 25
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n1.5730

Evaluation of cassava meal as substitute for wheat in the feeding Clarias gariepinus
type: item
description: The present study evaluated the use of whole cassava meal (HYI) as a partial substitute for wheat meal (HT) in the commercial feed of Clarias gariepinus during the pre-fattening stage. A total of 180 animals, with an average initial weight of 10.6 ± 0.05 g, were utilized in the study. These animals were randomly allocated to one of four treatments, with each treatment having three replicates. A one factor ANOVA followed by a Duncan significance test at the 5% probability level were employed to analyze the results. The treatments were: a control group using a formulation of the commercial catfish feed and three experimental diets with HYI that represented the replacement of 25, 50, and 75% of the wheat meal from the control diet, respectively. The pellets containing HYI demonstrated optimal physical integration and acceptance by the animals. No differences were detected in the amounts of food (87.13, 85.80, 87.56, and 85.33 g) or protein supplied per animal (26.80, 24.82, 26.02, and 24.89 g). The final weights and feed conversion rates were comparable across the groups, with no significant differences observed (p > 0.05). However, the protein efficiency (1.96, 2.02, 2.10, and 2.00) was enhanced when 50% of the wheat was substituted. The survival rates were found to be 100% across all treatment groups. The economic analysis revealed that all treatment options with HYI exhibited both reduced feed costs and tangible economic benefits. The most significant cost reductions were realized through the substitution of 50% of the wheat meal (US $115.22/t of fish). The findings of this study demonstrate that the incorporation of whole cassava meal into the commercial feed of C. gariepinus fingerlings can substitute for up to 75% of wheat meal, without adversely affecting the animals' productivity or exerting a favorable economic influence.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: starch
  topic: keywords
subject: catfish
  topic: keywords
subject: cereals
  topic: keywords
subject: diet
  topic: keywords
subject: nutrition
  topic: keywords
creator: José Llanes - Iglesias
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-06-17
publication date: 2025-06-17
starting page: e5746
ending page: e5746
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n1.5746

Totoaba, a species with great potential for mexican mariculture
type: item
description: The Totoaba (Totoaba macdonaldi) is a member of the Sciaenidae family, which includes croakers. It is the largest species in this family and is currently classified as an endangered species. Fishing for it has been permanently banned in Mexico since 1975 due to illegal fishing driven by the value of its swim bladder on the Asian market. This situation requires an honest evaluation by the relevant authorities.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
subject: Totoaba macdonaldi
  topic: keywords
subject: mariculture
  topic: keywords
creator: Marco Linné Unzueta Bustamente
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Tropical Aquaculture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-10-27
publication date: 2025-10-27
starting page: e5751
ending page: e5751
doi: 10.19136/ta.a3n1.5751

Genetic merit evaluation of second-generation Nile tilapia (GIFT)
type: item
description: The present study aimed to determine the genetic value of Nile tilapia GIFT in its second generation. The data evaluated corresponded to 19 families obtained from the genetic improvement program of tilapia in Cuba. An evaluation was performed on the entire population to determine each individual's genetic value, classifying it into high, medium, and low. The results obtained for high genetic merit were 362 and 322 grams for males and females, respectively, demonstrating the superiority of males over females for the live weight characteristic. The genetic parameters and variance components were estimated: additive, residual and phenotypic variance. As a fundamental element, heritability was estimated, characterized by being classified as high by obtaining a value of 0.49. The evaluation of genetic merit in genetic improvement programs represents a high potential to improve productivity through genetic selection.
subject: Scientific article
  topic: section
subject: Oreochromis niloticus
  topic: keywords
subject: genetic parameters
  topic: keywords
subject: live-weight
  topic: keywords
creator: Teresa de Jesus Damas-Pérez
creator: Daylen Virgen Barrueta-López
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Authors & UJAT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2024-12-11
publication date: 2024-12-11
starting page: 5
ending page: 11
doi: 10.19136/ta.a2n2.5733