Embryonic and larval development stages of Oreochromis niloticus eggs during its artificial incubation

Abstract

Embryonic and larval development stages of Oreochromis niloticus eggs during its artificial incubation were conducted in transparent water filter incubation jar at 29±0.11°C. Embryo developments were monitored and captured for defining characteristics from just fertilized egg to post yolk sac fry under digital microscope at 45× magnification. A bright yellow ellipsoidal egg describes a just fertilized egg was observed on the 1st day. Development of a rod-like structure was noticed at the dorsal part of developing embryo on the 3rd day. Hatching of the embryo occur on the 5th day while on the 12th day a well-developed swim-up fry with functional mouth, eye, and fins emerged. This research would be valuable to tilapia stakeholders interested in genetic manipulation techniques for improve Oreochromis niloticus production.