Effects of Temperature on Growth of Juvenile Speckled Peacock Bass Cichla temensis

The Speckled Peacock Bass Cichla temensis is a popular sport and food fish with potential for aquaculture. The species is reported to be sensitive to temperature extremes and low dissolved oxygen, but the growth response to these variables has not been evaluated. This study examined temperature (25, 30, and 35 degrees C) effects on growth of juveniles (TL [mean +/- SE] = 139 +/- 1 mm; wet weight = 29.73 +/- 0.64 g) during an 8-week period. Length and weight gains were similar for fish acclimated to 25 degrees C (25 +/- 1 mm; 20.03 +/- 1.65 g) and 30 degrees C (26 +/- 2 mm; 19.17 +/- 1.90 g), whereas fish that were held at 35 degrees C had reduced growth (7 +/- 1 mm; 0.79 +/- 0.55 g). Specific growth rate (SGR; % of wet body weight [BW]/d) and Fulton's condition factor at the end of the experiment (K-f) were similar for fish acclimated to 25 degrees C (0.87 +/- 0.05% BW/d; 1.10 +/- 0.02) and 30 degrees C (0.85 +/- 0.06% BW/d; 1.08 +/- 0.02), while those acclimated to 35 degrees C displayed lower SGR and K-f (0.04 +/- 0.03% BW/d; 0.97 +/- 0.02). Survival was over 90% among all treatments. These results indicate that 25-30 degrees C is preferable to 35 degrees C for rearing juvenile Speckled Peacock Bass and that higher temperatures should be avoided.