Studies of feeding stimulation in young eels, Anguilla anguilla L., before and after first-feeding using a novel rapid-screening method

Abstract

Olfactory attractiveness and gustatory palatability of different materials of potential importance in first-feeding of young eels, Anguilla anguilla (L.), were examined using a novel electromechanical device which was developed for rapid screening. Comparisons were made between non-feeding glass eels and elvers that had commenced feeding on a commercial formulated granule diet. Preparations of tubificid worms, earthworms (Eisenia foetida), cod roe, beef liver and potentially stimulatory chemicals were tested. Invertebrate-derived foodstuffs and combinations of amino acids, inosine 5′-monophosphate and glycine betaine were found to be more attractive than vertebrate foodstuffs pre-weaning. Attractiveness and palatability, especially of granules formulated for eels, were strongly influenced by learning after feeding had commenced. Implications for weaning of glass eels in aquaculture are discussed. Further uses of the rapid-screening device are discussed.