2.4. Experimental procedure and samples collection
After a 24-h feed deprivation, 150 size-selected shrimp (with initial
wet bodyweight 1.21±0.01 g, mean±S.E.)were pooled into a large fiberglass
tank. Among the pooled shrimps, 30 were randomly sampled
for later analysis (including initial dry weight, amount of energy and
protein in shrimp). The remainder were randomly picked up, individually
weighed and stocked into 24 aquaria with each aquarium holding
five individuals. During the experiment, the shrimps were fed twice a
day (at 6 a.m. and 4 p.m.). 2.5 h after feeding, the uneaten feed and
feces were collected apart into cups by siphon, settled, and dried. The
molted shells were also collected. The collected uneaten feed, feces
and shells were dried at 65 °C, and kept for further analysis. After the
45-day experiment, all the shrimp were sampled and dried at 65 °C
for 48 h.