Jiaxi Wang (Hubei Fisheries Research Institute, Wuhan 430071)
(I) Technical Overview and Characteristics
The American largemouth bass (*Micropterus salmoides*), a large freshwater fish native to North America, has become a popular species for aquaculture due to its desirable traits. It grows quickly, has high survival rates, strong resistance to diseases, matures early, and is adaptable to various environmental conditions. The fish can survive in water temperatures ranging from 0°C to 42°C, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. Countries like Russia and Ukraine have already introduced this species as an alternative to traditional carp, and Chinese fisheries began exploring its potential as early as the 1980s. In May 1993, the Hubei Fisheries Science Institute successfully introduced the American largemouth bass into China for the first time. Through extensive research on its biology, economic traits, artificial breeding, pond culture, and feed formulation, the project developed a set of breeding techniques tailored to China’s conditions. This initiative not only filled a gap in local aquaculture but also brought significant economic and social benefits.
Key performance indicators of this technology include:
(1) A comprehensive study of the biological characteristics of the American largemouth bass, compared with local species like the Chinese catfish.
(2) Successful propagation trials, resulting in the first generation of offspring.
(3) Development of seedling cultivation methods adapted to China’s environment.
(4) Designing cost-effective compound feeds suitable for different growth stages, keeping feed costs under 40%.
(5) Promotion of 1.2 million seedlings to regions such as Guangdong, Sichuan, Hubei, Shandong, Jiangsu, Shanghai, and Beijing, generating over 613,000 yuan in direct economic benefits and more than 14 million yuan in social returns.
(B) Key Technical Points
Although the American largemouth bass shares some similarities with catfish in terms of behavior, it also has unique characteristics. The key technical points include:
(1) Artificial spawning using oxytocin injections, followed by natural spawning. Incubation can be done in cement tanks, ponds, or raceways.
(2) Seedling cultivation can be done in concrete pools, cages, or nursery systems. Cement ponds are commonly used, with a stocking density of about 30,000 per cubic meter, leading to growth of 2-3 cm within 10-15 days and a survival rate of 81%-92%.
(3) Adult fish are typically raised in ponds, either alone or in combination with other species. A stocking density of 50-150 g per fish, with 9,000–12,000 individuals per hectare, is common. Feeding them with 35% protein compound feed, along with lime disinfection at 300 kg per hectare every 15 days during disease outbreaks, results in a yield of approximately 9,150 kg per hectare after one year.
(4) Disease incidence is relatively low, though anchor worms may affect fry. Applying 0.03 µL/L trichlorfon solution and replacing one-fifth of the water helps prevent bacterial infections.
(III) Market Potential and Benefits
The successful introduction and domestication of the American largemouth bass represent a major step forward for China's freshwater aquaculture. It plays a crucial role in diversifying fish species, increasing the presence of premium fish in the market, and improving the efficiency of water resource utilization. This innovation also accelerates the industrialization of the fishing industry, bringing substantial economic, social, and ecological benefits, especially in both developed and less-developed regions, including mountainous areas.
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