Physiology of Fish in Culture Environments

Abstract Successfully rearing fish in aquaculture requires a sound understanding of fish physiology, and of the effects on the physiology of the cultured fishes of key environmental parameters, such as water temperature, dissolved oxygen levels, and carbon dioxide concentrations. Fish culturists should strive to provide fish with conditions that approach the physiological optimum for functions such as growth for food fish and reproduction for conservation. Because of the often-conflicting goals of maximizing production versus maintaining high water quality, it is important that culturists find equilibrium points that allow for the profitable production without unduly jeopardizing the health and performance of the fish.