Birol Baki, Ali Karaçuha, Hakan Baki
Flounder (Platichthys flesus), which is a suitable fish species for aquaculture, has market value in Turkey. However, its larval feeding characteristics at breeding stage need to be identified. This study aims to establish preferences of flounder among different feed options and their consumption amounts based on number of feeding and feeding times. In the present study, chironomid and mosquito larvae utilized as food sources in the nature by fish and commercially produced granule feed were given to the flounder singly and as a mixture. While the fish consumed all the food sources, chironomid larvae and mosquito larvae were notably preferred and in mixed feeding, chironomid larvae consumption increased whereas mosquito larvae consumption decreased. In conclusion, food preference of flounder was determined to comprise the living organisms fitting in its feeding behavior and habitat, therefore, they notably preferred chironomid larvae, which shows the feature of motility on the ground.
