Artificial restocking of benthic resources (invertebrates and algae) is
promoted and regulated by the Chilean Fisheries and Aquaculture General Law and by the Management and Exploitation Areas for Benthic
Resources Regulation. Sea urchin restocking experiences in Chile have
been experimental and scarce (Jerez and Figueroa, 2007). Future
restocking programs will most likely demand a reliable source of highquality
hatchery-reared juveniles,whichmust grow rapidly after seeding
in natural restocking areas. The findings of this study regarding diet plasticity
and alternative natural foods that increase the performance of
L. albus juveniles contribute not only to an improved understanding of
juveniles' performance in culture but also to explore suitable areas for
restocking while considering the presence and availability of alternative
food sources.