Neutral Buoyancy Salinity of Pacific Halibut Hippoglossus stenolepis Eggs and Larvae

Samples of halibut eggs in nature have led to theories that development occurs near the sea bed and, alternatively, well up in the water column. Resolution of the conflicting theories and information which should assist culturists in providing the proper environmental conditions for egg development and hatching were the subjects of this study. The neutral buoyancy salinity (NBS) of Pacific halibut eggs and larvae ranged between 29.8–34%. Eggs and larvae with higher NBS (> 35%) were usually abnormal or stressed. Thus, eggs found near the seabed may be nonviable.