The proximity of the aquarium to Georges Bank and the Gulf of Maine, sources for cold water fish species, makes Narragansett an ideal location for research on commercially valuable species such as cod and haddock. We are also located close to other institutions/collaborators working on research issues of mutual interest.
Scientists at the Narragansett Laboratory are developing methods for the intensive culture of cod and haddock and conducting research to fill critical voids in our knowledge of their early life history. Both Atlantic cod and haddock broodstocks are maintained at the Narragansett Laboratory. Methods are under investigation to produce high quality embryos, larvae and juveniles through out the year. Swimming behavior, activity, feeding, digestion and metabolism (oxygen consumption) are examined as they relate to development, growth, and prey availability. The effects of the physical environment (temperature and turbulence) are considered. Results will be integrated into individual-based, bioenergetic models of growth and survival. This facility, with its two large seawater tanks (14 and 28 m) and extensive seawater systems, has allowed the scientists at Narragansett to spawn and rear over a dozen different species of marine fish, many for the first time in captivity.
The facility is currently being used to produce cod and haddock for research projects sponsored by the NEFSC, NOAA Coastal Ocean Program, NSF, SEA GRANT, and the NOAA/NSF sponsored GLOBEC Georges Bank program.
Embryos, larvae and juveniles are cultured under defined environmental conditions to investigate the effects of key environmental variables, such as temperature, prey quality and availability. We are part of a regional effort with broad-based academic, state, and private sector working to further aquaculture and enhancement of cod and haddock in the Northeast. Currently, research projects are underway with cooperating institutions including the Universities of Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine; Great Bay Aquafarms (NH), and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (MA).
For further information, contact Larry Buckley: Larry.Buckley@Noaa.Gov
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