The cross between Salvelinus alpinus (arctic char) and Salvelinus fontinalis (brook trout) is becoming an increasing popular “Pan-size” – alternative to the rainbow trout in specific markets. This product has the appealing exterior and characteristic meat texture of the Salvelinus species, but with the advantage of higher temperature optimum and improved resistance to a number of fish diseases, over the non-hybridized Salvelinus material.
AquaSearch HYBRID is available in two forms, either:
In both cases hatching and first feeding is slightly more complicated than it is known from the rainbow trout. A maximum hatching temperature of 9 – 10 °C should not be exceeded. The overall hatching rate may differ between batches, the hatching period and yolk sac absorption is more prolonged than seen with the rainbow trout, and weaning can be expected more difficult and more dependent on external factors like palatability of the starter diet, noise, light and disturbance in general.
Also the lower temperature optimum of the Salvelinus species compared to the rainbow trout must be considered, with a recommended maximum temperature for ongrowing of about 16 °C.
All of this being said the salvelinus hybrids has many advantages from a fish farmers point of view, like potential higher biomass density and specific disease resistance against e.g. VHS.
AquaSearch HYBRID product line is characterised by:
*Special feature