Effect of temperature and photoperiod on the growth and fecundity of a freshwater cladoceran, Moina macrocopa (Straus, 1820) (Branchiopoda: Anomopoda)

Temperature and photoperiod are important parameters in zooplankton culture, particularly in cladoceran culture due to their significant effect on growth and reproduction. Effects of temperature and photoperiod on the growth and fecundity of a cladoceran, Moina macrocopa was examined by culturing and feeding it with green algae Scenedesmus quadricauda in 500 ml conical flasks. Treatments used for temperature (0C) and photoperiod were 25, 30, 35 (0C) and 12:12, 24:0 and 0:24(light:dark hours), respectively. The maximum population density (310.5 individuals/flask), maximum specific growth rate (SGR) (0.387 individuals /day), shortest population doubling time (Dt) (1.79days) and highest fecundity (8.5 offsprings/ female) obtained at 30(0C). Correspondingly, the maximum population density (320.7 ind/flask), maximum SGR (0.538 ind/day), shortest Dt (1.28 days) and highest fecundity (7.54 offsprings/ female) determined at 24:0 light:dark photoperiod. Overall, this research showed that growth and reproduction of M. macrocopa at 30 (0C) and 24:0 light:dark photoperiod gave significant performance (P<0.05) compared to other examined treatments. Mass culture of this species under the mentioned conditions of temperature and photoperiod could provide suitable live food for use in fish larvaiculture.