Abstract:
The effect of three temperatures (19, 23, and 27degreesC) on the postprandial metabolism (apparent heat increment) of juvenile Farfantepenaeus californiensis was evaluated. The unfed metabolic rate and post-prandial metabolic rates were determined with an intermittent-flow respirometer during 5 h. A peak in oxygen consumption was found 2 It after feeding at 19 and 27degreesC whereas at 23degreesC the peak was found after 1 h. The unfed metabolic rate at 23degreesC was not different from that at 27degreesC. The maximum metabolic rates of fed animals were 2.1, 1.6. and 1.7 times that of unfed animals in order of increasing exposure. The highest apparent heat increment was found at 27degreesC. Energy loss varied from 4.11 to 11.43 J. Calculated Q(10) thermal coefficients indicate metabolic overcompensation for temperature changes between 19 and 27degreesC, and between 19 and 23degreesC. except at the maximum metabolic rate. In contrast, Q(10)s for temperature changes between 23 and 27degreesC indicate compensation.