محیط زیست و توسعه فرابخشی (Jul 2024)
Introduction and Identification of Polychaeta Worms from the Family Nereididae in the Persian Gulf (Coastal Waters of Bushehr Province) and its Role in Aquaculture Development
Abstract
Introduction: Polychaeta worms from the family Nereididae are widely used as live food to expedite sexual maturation and produce high-quality reproductive gonads in shrimp. This live feed, due to its high content of long-chain unsaturated fatty acids compared to commercial feeds, significantly impacts the gametogenesis process of marine shrimps, leading to increased production and hatching rates. The cultivation of native species presents a suitable solution for sustainable polychaete worm production. This type of production can meet various needs. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to identify and report species from the family Nereididae in the Persian Gulf within the coastal waters of Bushehr province over a period of one year. Polychaete samples were collected at each station using a Van Veen grab sampler. At each station, three sediment samples were taken for the separation and identification of polychaetes, which were immediately rinsed with sea water using a 500-micron sieve installed on board. To identify the species, larger organisms were initially separated using an unarmed eye and magnifying glass. The isolated samples were photographed using a stereomicroscope equipped with a camera and identified using relevant keys. Results: According to the results obtained in this study, 6 species including Perinereis heterodonta, P. nuntia, Perinereis sp., Ceratonereis sp.1, Ceratonereis sp.2 and Nicon sp. belonging to three genera—Perinereis, Ceratonereis, and Nicon—from the family Nereididae were identified in the Persian Gulf. Discussion: Given the vital role of polychaete worms in shrimp reproduction, identifying and utilizing native species from this family can enhance the performance of breeding centers and lead to sustainable development of the aquaculture industry.
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