Osmoregulatory plasticity of juvenile greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) to environmental salinity

Abstract

The greater amberjack, Seriola dumerili, is of particular interest for pisciculture diversification due to its flesh quality and worldwide market acceptance. Moreover, this species shows rapid growth at the juvenile stage and 75% survival under captivity conditions. Among growing conditions, salinity is a critical factor for optimal growth. This study specifically assessed and characterized the physiological status of osmoregulation in individuals acclimated to three experimental salinities (15, 22, and 36 psu) in land-based recirculating aquaculture systems for 92 days. The results indicated several physiological adaptations to the different environmental salinities, both at the osmoregulatory and metabolic levels. Overall, our results suggest a beneficial effect of lower salinities for the juvenile stage to improve growth performance and avoid seawater-parasite outbreaks prior to transfer to sea cages.