Nursing Effects of Large-Scale Floating Raft Aquaculture Habitats on Conger myriaster: A Perspective from Marine Ranching

This study assessed the growth characteristics of Conger myriaster in large-scale floating raft aquaculture habitats and natural habitats. Monthly sampling in aquaculture and control areas, combined with biological and morphological data analyses, were used to investigate the growth, morphological differences, and seasonal distribution of Conger myriaster in different habitats. The results showed that the floating raft aquaculture habitat was dominated by juveniles, with a higher abundance compared to the control areas. The juveniles exhibited favorable levels of growth and ecological performance in the floating raft aquaculture habitat and experienced less environmental stress. This research shows that the floating raft aquaculture habitat provides a critical stage habitat for juvenile Conger myriaster in island reef areas, providing refuge from predation and facilitating juvenile development. The integration of surface floating rafts and bottom-set artificial reefs in marine ranching can create a fisheries model that focuses on the protection of juveniles and the exploitation of adults.