Effects of feeding level and starvation on growth and water and protein content in juvenile redclaw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus (von Martens)

Abstract

Effects of feeding level and starvation on growth, water content and protein content were examined in juvenile Cherax quadricarinatus. Gain in body weight was positively related to feeding level. An increase in feeding level resulted in a decrease in water content and an increase in protein content. Although the majority of juveniles were able to tolerate starvation for at least 12 days, deprivation of feeding caused a loss of weight and a gradual decrease in protein content combined with a simultaneous increase in water content. Total protein content was reduced by 3.9% in juveniles starved for three days and by 8.3% in those starved for 12 days. Normal body protein content, however, was recovered within six days after subsequent feeding in juveniles that were deprived of food for 12 days.