Effects of different initial diets on the survival and behavior characteristics of the larvae of Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica)

Based on the continuous research on artificial propagation of Japanese eel Anguilla japonica, the effects of different initial diets on the survival of eel larvae were investigated, and the motion characteristics and feeding behavior of larvae were observed and recorded. The results showed that the shark eggs, krill extract-based diet and shark eggs, jellyfish-based diet and exclusively microalgae had positive effects on larval survival; However, the shark eggs, artemia-based diet and artemia, krill extract-based diet, rotifers and kelp, seaweed homogenate, jellyfish and fermented shark flesh reduced larval survival. The larvae touched the diets repetitiously, and then opened the lower jaw widely and bit, which confirmed that the way for eel larvae to ingest diets was biting after touching.