Effects of Nutrition Intensification on the Secondary Ovary Development and Oviposition of Redclaw Crayfish

Abstract

To further explore the impact of nutrient fortification on the ovarian secondary development of redclaw crayfish, four groups were set up: group ①, no feeding; group ②, formulated feeding; groups ③ and ④, formulated feed + nutrient bait. Results showed (1) the proportions of egg‐bearing shrimp in groups ③ and ④. 2) The weight growth rate of group ① was the lowest, the maturation coefficient of unripe shrimp in group ④ was the highest, and the egg‐holding rates in groups ③ and ④ were significantly higher than those of group ①. The hatching and survival rates of yellow eggs in group ④ were significantly higher than those in group ②. The hatching and survival rates of red eggs in groups ③ and ④ were significantly higher than those in group ①. (3) The weight gain rate of juveniles in group ④ was significantly higher than those of group ①. (4) Genes and proteins related to ovarian development were screened. In summary, group ④ had a higher proportion of egg‐holding shrimp, faster ovarian development, and a higher maturity coefficient. The hatching and survival rates of eggs, and the survival and weight gain rates of the offspring were also high.