In order to assess mortality rates, dead larvae were removed and
counted daily. For analysis of gene expression, RNA:DNA ratio,
tryptic activity and size, larvae were anaesthetized with MS 222 (Sigma, Germany) and sampled at 11 and 25 dph in the morning,
before feeding, from each tank. These two life stages were chosen to
evaluate short term effects of the immunomodulator (11 dph) and
long-term effects during feeding of untreated Artemia (25 dph).
Samples for gene expression studies and RNA:DNA analysis were
stored at 80 C in RNAlater until RNA extraction or in tank water
for tryptic activity