Body coloration, carotenoid content, spermatophore quality and biochemical parameters by effect of temperature in the caridean shrimp Neocaridina davidi (Atyidae)

Abstract

This study analysed the effects of three temperatures (20, 24 and 28ºC) on survival, body coloration, carotenoid content, body weight, biochemical composition and spermatophore quality in the shrimp Neocaridina davidi. In all treatments, survival was >90%. Female body coloration and total carotenoid content, for both males and females, did not statistically differ among treatments. Female weight was similar for the three temperatures, while male weight was higher at 20ºC and 24ºC. Total lipid content was higher in female and male shrimps raised at 20ºC. Total protein content was higher in females exposed at 28ºC, but in contrast, males showed the lowest value at the same temperature. The histological and histochemical analyses of the male reproductive system did not reveal differences among treatments. At 20ºC, a delay in ovaries maturation was observed, as well as a smaller amount of ovigerous females at the end of the experimental period. Hence, these results suggest that a temperature range from 20ºC to 28ºC is adequate for satisfactory growth, with no change being exerted on spermatophore quality, body female coloration or carotenoid content, but biochemical composition was affected. Nevertheless, the lowest temperature had a clear impact on the metabolism and reproduction of N. davidi.