The Effect Of Calcium On The Osmotic Tolerance Of Juvenile Striped Mullet (Mugil Cephalus L.)

Juvenile striped mullet, ranging in size from 25 mm to 150 mm standard length and acclimated to 10% and 50% seawater, were subjected to direct transfer from acclimation salinity to salinity levels varying from distilled water to 200% seawater. Tests were also made using two commercially prepared, osmotically balanced, synthetic seawater mixes; one containing twice the normal calcium level and the other calcium-free. The presence of calcium significantly increased both survival time and survival rate. Acclimation tests also indicated a beneficial effect from increased calcium levels.