The marine finfish aquaculture industry requires a healthy and constant supply of larvae to ensure the sustainable production of commercial fish. However, external fertilization with floating eggs and exposure to ambient changes before hatching can negatively affect the larvae’s development and survival. The first feeding stage is particularly critical, as any failure or lack of adequate food supply can result in developmental alterations, reduced growth, and even mortality.

To better understand each larvae stage, Dr. Ibarra-Castro uses various approaches such as biology development, histology, biochemical, and molecular studies to integrate basic research and facilitate the development of state-of-the-art management strategies for optimizing larval grow-out. He focuses on applying research-based knowledge transfer and reproductive management practices to improve finfish production.

Fish Aquaculture Extension Program

Dr. Leonardo Ibarra-Castro's Extension Program provides complimentary outreach services to businesses, organizations and the general public who are interested in learning about the Fish Aquaculture program at the Whitney Laboratory. Outreach can take place at the Whitney Laboratory, your location, or virtually.

Community Outreach Services can include:

• Tour of Whitney Laboratory's Fish Aquaculture Facility
• Presentation at your next meeting, conference, workshop or in-house training
• Discussion one-on-one or with small groups

Fish Aquaculture Topics 

• Industry / Market Overview
• Whitney Lab Fish Aquaculture Facility Design / Tour 
• Basic Research in the Ibarra-Castro Lab
• Fish Husbandry
• Fish Reproduction
• Larval Morphological Development
• Live Food Production (to Improve Larval Nutrition)
• Prophylaxis in an Aquaculture System
• Conservation & Sustainability
• Profitability

Contact

For more information please fill out the request form here, or contact Dr. Leonardo Ibarra-Castro directly at l.ibarracastro@whitney.ufl.edu or 904-201-8421.