Reproduction of the dusky grouper Epinephelus marginatus

Abstract

The dusky grouper Epinephelus marginatus (Lowe, 1834), is a specie of great importance in the Mediterranean on both a commercial and recreational level. Due to its great exploitation, since 2004, it has been classified on the IUNCIN Red List as endangered specie. Aimed at studying the reproduction of the dusty grouper with major interest in its repopulation and production, the Catalan Aquaculture Network (XRAq) and the Aquàrium of Barcelona have put together a reproductive stock. They have used visual and electronic identification methods and have experimented with different types of holding facilities. Preliminary results on the reproductive aspect (maturity state of the gonads and steroid hormone levels) as well as the productive aspects (conversion index and growth rate) among others are presented in this study. The information generated by this work allows to keep gathering more information about growth and reproduction aspects of an important specie in the meditarranean area