Effects of copper on survival, development and growth of Metapenaeus ensis larvae and postlarvae (decapoda: Penaeidae)

Effects of copper on survival, development and growth of the early developmental stages of the penaeid shrimp, Metapenaeus ensis, were studied in the laboratory. High variability in survival rates were observed among animals from different spawners. Larvae exposed to 0.06 and 0.10 mg Cu l−1 over a 10-day period had lower survival rates and exhibited slower development than control animals. No significant treatment effects were found at 0.04 and 0.08 mg Cu l−1. Effects of copper on survival and growth of postlarvae were studied over an 8-day period. Copper concentrations lower than 0.10 mg l−1 did not affect survival rates. Slower growth rates were observed in postlarvae exposed to 0.08 and 0.10 mg Cu l−1.