Expression of genes related to lipid metabolism in Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus L.) larvae fed rotifers and copepods

The study demonstrated that copepods were a better live prey for first feeding ABT larvae based on growth and survival. Differences in the expression patterns of lipid metabolism genes were observed between the two trials. Some of the responses in lipid gene expression could be due to dietary lipid and fatty acid composition, but there was no obvious direct correlation between gene expression patterns and growth or survival. Differences in performance and metabolism among larval groups between the trials could also partly reflect differences in broodstock nutrition in the two trials. Hence, further studies are required to investigate lipid requirements, lipid accumulation and metabolism during development of ABT larvae. Special importance should be given to the expression analysis of genes related to lipid metabolism and its regulation, combined with biochemical studies of tuna lipid metabolism in order to develop optimal feeds to facilitate the commercial culture of this iconic species