Biochemical composition of Lucifer hanseni from the Cochin estuary

Abstract

Biochemical composition and the elemental chemical constituents of the planktonic sergestid shrimp, Lucifer hanseni Nobili were estimated during October 1991 - May 1992 from a selected station off \^pin island in the Cochin estuary. Protein formed the m^or fraction of the organic constituents. Seasonal variation was observed in the protein content. Protein and lipid fractions were inversely proportional. Neither lipid nor carbohydrate appeared to be significant energy sources. Lipid was the most variable component. An inverse relation was evident between the moisture content of the shrimp and its lipid level. Carbohydrate content of the organism was found complementary to its lipid content. Decrease in carbohydrate content was recorded during periods of low salinity. Values of chitin and ash were less variable. There was marked seasonal variation in the moisture content. Calorific content of L. hanseni estimated as 4.527 k cal/g ash free weight was found comparable with that of other cadidate species selected as live feed. The average values of carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen were 39.84%, 8.73% and 6.09% respectively of dry weight.