An approach to study the nutritional requirements of the bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus thynnus L.)

Abstract

The research required in relation to the nutrition of bluefin tuna (BFT) is great. In previous trials in the domestication of large scombrids and in current capture-fattening schemes, nutritional studies have been few. Therefore, virtually nothing is presently known about the nutritional requirements for these species. Nutritional factors are important in any domestication programme in a variety of areas. Correct nutrition is a vital factor in the production of a successful broodstock with high fecundity and fertility producing large numbers of high quality eggs. Reproductive control itself is affected by nutritional factors such as lipid/energy content which can influence sexual maturation in other fish species. Successful larval rearing of marime fish is highly dependent upon suitable diets, whether live prey species or artificial, and their precise composition particularly in relation to fatty acids is an area that still demands much research for all marine species. Clues to the nutritional requirements of any animal can be obtained by looking at the natural food for that animal, in this instance, the natural prey species of the BFT and also by determining the composition of wild caught animals, both prey and predator. The latter certainly being a source of information in terms of lipids and fatty acid requirements. The few data available from previous trials can also add to the overall view. In this section we will briefly review the literature on what is known about the nutrition of the large scombrids and also, importantly, place the problems of their feeding and nutrition in a global perspective.