Weight Loss, Survival, and Fatty Acid Composition in Overwintered Juvenile Coppernose Bluegill <i>Lepomis macrochirus purpurescens</i> Cultured in Outdoor Tanks Using Different Feeding Regimens

Abstract Commercial producers raising centrarchids in Arkansas routinely report winter mortality. Juvenile are susceptible to harsh conditions. The Coppernose Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus purpurescens is a popular sport fish for recreational fishing, and there no recommended best management practices feeding of this species. An outdoor trial was conducted investigate the effect different regimens on performance 2014–2015. Four were implemented that included twice per week (2×/week), once (1×/week), month (2×/month), or (1×/month). Twenty‐five (initial weight = 2.59 ± 0.19 g) stocked tank (16 tanks, 4 replicates). Temperatures ranged from 0°C 16°C during trial. After 95 d, differences ( P &gt; 0.05) final loss. Fish fed 2×/week 1×/week had higher survival &lt; than those 2×/month 1×/month. Fatty acid profiles initial distinctly postwinter fish, although frequency did not appear influence fatty Bluegill. Levels saturates fish. monounsaturated acids 16:1 18:1(n‐9) Initial contained lower levels 18:2(n‐6), 20:4, 22:6(n‐3) Total polyunsaturated (PUFAs) n‐3 n‐6 also while ratio n‐6/n‐3 differ significantly among Data indicate (1) overwintering infrequently preferentially conserve PUFAs (2) 1 × /week 2 may be beneficial strategy increase temperate regions USA.