Population growth dynamics of the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis cultured in non-limiting food condition

Abstract

Population growth parameters in batch culture of Brachionus plicatilis under a continuous supply of freeze-dried microalgae powder have been determined. Two B. plicatilis strains (L- and S-types) and four microalgae species (Nannochloropsis oculata, Nannochloropsis gaditana, Nannochloris oculata and Tetraselmis suecica) have been tested, establishing the dynamics of growth at different daily food rations. Cultures showed a short lag phase, an exponential growth phase, a long post-exponential growth phase and long decline with episodic increases. In both rotifer strains, the best growth was obtained with Nannochloropsis oculata and the poorest with Nannochloris oculata.