Penaeid Shrimp Salinity Gradient Tank Study 2005-2008

We designed an experimental gradient tank to examine salinity preferences of juvenile brown shrimp and white shrimp. Although no strong pattern of salinity avoidance was apparent, brown shrimp showed a general preference for salinities from 17-35 psu, and exhibited avoidance at the extreme low salinities along the gradient. Results for white shrimp were not statistically significant, but white shrimp did not appear to avoid lower salinities (18 psu) as brown shrimp did. There was no effect of water temperature on the observed selection patterns for either species. Results suggest that although both species show salinity preferences, strong distribution trends often associated with salinity gradients in estuaries are likely caused by other environmental factors.