A review of pond zooplankton production and fertilization for the culture of larval and fingerling striped bass

Successful culture of the planktivorous fry of warmwater fish species such as striped bass (Morone saxatilis) depends heavily upon the composition and density of zooplankton established in rearing ponds during the 4–6-week culture period. The paper reviews the growth, reproduction, and succession patterns of zooplankton in ponds, organic and inorganic pond fertilization, and predator—prey relationships as they relate to the culture of striped bass fingerlings. Based upon this information, a pond management strategy is proposed using combinations of organic and liquid inorganic fertilizers and crustacean zooplankton inoculation to develop and maintain the zooplankton forage base in striped bass rearing ponds.