Ontogenetic Development of Digestive Enzymes in Orange-Spotted Grouper (Epinephelus coioides, Hamilton, 1822) Larvae

Abstract

The digestive physiology of orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) was studied by assessing the specific and total activities of alkaline phosphatase, amylase, lipase, chymotrypsin, and trypsin, from hatching to 34 days post-hatching (DPH). From the onset of exogenous feeding, total alkaline phosphatase, amylase, lipase, and chymotrypsin activity fluctuated then sharply increased from 18 to 34 DPH. In contrast to other enzymes, the specific and total activity of trypsin remained at a low level from 1-26 DPH, and reached the maximum on 30 DPH. Digestive enzymes activity indicated that orange-spotted grouper were able to digest proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates at an early developmental stage. Results from the present study will improve understanding of the ontogeny of orange-spotted grouper during the larval stage, and provide a guide to hatchery feeding of this economically important fish.