Umbellaria is a highly valuable fish species with significant economic potential. However, in recent years, the expansion of aquaculture has led to large-scale pond farming in Wuhu, resulting in a shortage of wild and naturally bred seedlings. For example, Hubei Dahuihu Farm successfully introduced and cultured Wuyi in extensive areas, achieving remarkable results. In 1993, an area of 20,000 mu was promoted, producing 4,105 kg of Wuhuan and generating nearly 7 million yuan in revenue from Wujing. Due to the widespread promotion of aquaculture across the country, artificial breeding of black peony seedlings began in the late 1980s to meet the growing demand.
The origin of broodstock for artificial breeding can be either wild-caught from natural water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, or selectively bred from farmed fish like the four-mackerel. Broodstock are typically raised in fish ponds at a density of 8–10 per acre, allowing them to grow to a weight of 1–2 kg before being selected for breeding. These selected broodstock are then kept in dedicated ponds for manual reproduction.
The quality of broodstock significantly affects reproductive success. In the Central Plains region, black peony fish aged between 2 and 4 years, weighing 1–2 kg, are preferred. In southern regions, individuals over one year old and weighing around 130 grams are more commonly selected.
During the non-breeding season, females have a grayish-white or yellowish-white belly, while males have a darker, grayish-black belly. The pectoral fins of females are tender and yellowish, whereas those of males are harder and darker. During the breeding season, females develop a swollen abdomen and a larger, protruding genital opening, while males have a smaller, less inflated abdomen with a narrow, slightly concave opening.
For broodstock breeding, spawning ponds are usually 1–2 mu in size, with a depth of 0.8–1 meter and a 15–20 cm layer of silt at the bottom. To prevent jumping, especially during summer rains, the pond should be 40–50 cm above the water level or surrounded by a 1–1.5 m high fence. Aquatic plants like water lilies are also planted to mimic their natural habitat.
Broodstock stocking density is typically 100–150 kg per acre, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1. Feeding includes small fish, shrimp, and other live prey, with daily feeding amounts ranging from 5% to 8% of the fish's body weight. Artificially enriched feeds rich in protein are also used to support gonad development. Water quality must be maintained with regular fresh water changes.
After 1–2 months, when conditions are favorable, broodstock are harvested for natural or artificial spawning. Natural spawning requires sufficient seedlings, so artificial environments are created to encourage self-spawning. Spawning ponds are designed with shallow and deep sections, and aquatic plants are added to maintain water freshness.
Artificial fish nests made from bamboo baskets or wooden frames are placed in the pools to help collect eggs. These nests are checked daily, and eggs are collected using a spoon or scoop. After hatching, larvae are moved to fry pools, and the nests are reused for further spawning.
Aphrodisiac spawning involves injecting mature broodstock with pituitary or chorionic gonadotropin hormones to induce spawning. Female broodstock are identified by their swollen bellies, visible ovaries, and pinkish genital openings. Males show no abdominal inflation but have a narrow, concave opening. Hormone doses vary depending on the fish's weight, with two injections typically given 12 hours apart.
After injection, broodstock are placed in large pools or cages for mating. Spawning occurs over 12–24 hours, after which fertilized eggs are collected and transferred to hatcheries. Eggs are incubated in tanks or cages, with careful attention to water temperature, cleanliness, and oxygen levels.
Hatching facilities include small incubators and large circular tanks, with optimal temperatures between 24–30°C. Dead or moldy eggs are removed regularly to prevent disease. Water changes are managed carefully to avoid stress on newly hatched larvae. The hatching period varies depending on temperature, with eggs hatching within 25–38 hours under ideal conditions.
This comprehensive approach ensures successful breeding and production of Umbellaria, supporting both commercial aquaculture and conservation efforts.
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