RESOLVING KYPHOSID COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL: WHICH DIETS OPTIMIZE GROWTH AND PALATE APPEAL FOR AN HERBIVOROUS MARINE REEF FISH?

Most marine fish farming for so-called 'carnivorous' fish - i.e. fish that eat other fish, or other animals - relies on more expensive diets, limiting growth of marine aquaculture and increasing the cost of products to US consumers. However, there is tremendous potential for farming herbivorous marine fish - i.e. those that eat plants, or seaweeds - as these diets would be more affordable, with benefits for fish farmers, US crop farmers and US consumers.This research tests a range of plant-based diets in herbivorous fish culture, to evaluate growth rates, and the taste once the fish are harvested. The goal is to identify less expensive diets for herbivorous marine fish that still result in fish that are tasty. If successful, lower-cost, plant-based diets could lead to expanded marine fish farming; greater market opportunities for US corn and soy farmers; more locally-grown, affordable fish for US consumers; fewer aquaculture imports and increased US food security.