Growth, first maturation and reproduction of Colossoma macropomum (Cuvier, 1818) under controlled conditions

This study assessed the growth, gonadal development, first maturation, sperm quality, and first reproduction of Colossoma macropomum raised under controlled conditions. The animals were maintained under consistent conditions. The mean weights reached after the first, second, and third years were 0.94 kg (0.50-1.42 kg), 3.78 kg (3.02-5.19 kg), and 5.66 kg (3.88-8.17 kg), respectively. The highest biomass was 14.1 kg/m³ at 890 days after hatching (DAH), while at the end of the study it was 5.6 kg/m³. Feed conversion remained below 2.0. No differences in weight or length were observed between males and females of the same age. Of the three males analyzed at 590 DAH, one was at rest and two were in initial maturation. Advanced male maturation was first recorded at 710 DAH. Six females showed initial maturation at 710 DAH, while advanced female maturation was first recorded at 890 DAH. Data on VFI, HSI, and GSI throughout development are presented. Sperm quality parameters did not differ between males at 890 and those at 990 DAH. Two out of four induced females spawned. This study is the first to provide evidence suggesting that the life cycle of C. macropomum can be completed in RAS.