Development and growth heterogeneity in oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense(De Haan) (Palaemonidea), in onthogenesis

Abstract

At all onthogenesis stages of the Oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense (De Haan), size heterogeneity has been traced within one egg clutch, at different develop­ mental stages of larvae, young and adult individuals. The problem of predetermining heterogeneity is discussed. Uneven larval development of individuals from a single clutch is shown. Also, it is shown that the first to become adults are the individuals hatched from small eggs. Conclusion is made that in estimating development and growth heterogeneity the genetic factor has a primary nature. Available data accounting is essential for selective culturing of prawns under controlled conditions with the required growth characteristics.