Effect of sex ratio on reproduction, fecundity and fertility of crayfish (Cambarellus montezumae, Saussure 1857) in closed aquaculture systems

Abstract

Objective: Evaluate the impact of sex ratio on reproductive aspects of the crayfish (Cambarellus montezumae) in recirculation systems

Design/methodology/approach: Three treatments were used with female-to-male sex ratios (2:1, 3:1, and 5:1). The organisms were collected in the wild, acclimatized, and subsequently introduced into a recirculating aquaculture system. Reproductive aspects such as number of fertilized eggs and number of offspring released per female were measured.

Results: Sex ratio had no effect on fecundity, fertility, or frequency of ovigerous females by treatment. The fertilization rate exceeded 50%, suggesting that factors such as mate selection and courtship influence reproductive success more than the number of females per male.

Limitations on study/implications: The study confirms the polygamous behaviour of males, which is characteristic of other shrimp species, so reproduction can be optimised by modifying the proportion of females, as well as taking into account factors such as water quality, female size and environmental conditions.

Findings/conclusions: Sex ratio is not a key factor to improve crayfish reproduction in controlled systems. It is recommended to prioritize the optimization of environmental conditions and the selection of high-quality breeders to increase reproductive efficiency.