Advances in aquaculture technology of mutton snapper (Lutjanus analis) and greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili), two candidate species for offshore grow-out

Recent progress in hatchery and grow-out technology of mutton snapper (Lutjanus analis) and greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) at the Aquaculture Center of the Florida Keys is described. Advances in maturation, spawning, egg production, larval rearing, nursery, fingerling production, and grow-out of these two prime candidates for offshore aquaculture are presented and discussed. In addition, aquaculture performance of mutton snapper raised in floating net cages was assessed by measuring growth, survival, and feed conversion rates. A preliminary assessment of the environmental impact of the operation on the ecosystem was conducted. Captive mutton snapper broodstock were conditioned to spawn voluntarily in maturation tanks using environmental cues alone. Newly caught broodstock mutton snapper were also induced to spawn using hormone injections. Criteria for predicting final ovulation and spawning were developed and are described in this paper. Spawning events, which are preceded by males and females assuming a distinctive courtship behavior are also described.