INTENSIVE PRODUCTIOIN OF HYBRID WALLEYE               Sander vitreous  x  S. canadense  IN A RECYCLE WATER SYSTEM

Past research efforts have investigated seasonal advancement of spawning, intensive indoor fry-fingerling production, and hybridization as potential ways to improve walleye (Sander vitreus) aquaculture, but the commercial advantages of these technologies have not been proven.  Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Northern Aquaculture Demonstration Facility (UWSP-NADF) have successfully adapted and modified these technologies to produce purebred walleye, purebred sauger (Sander canadensis) and hybrid (Sander vitreous  x  S. canadensis)(saugeye) fingerlings utilizing a commercial scale 23ºC water recycle system.  Field trials conducted by UWSP-NADF scientists showed remarkable growth of hybrids fed commercial diet of up to 1.0kg within 12 months. Preliminary results with these fish from food processors and aquaculture marketing indicate a high dollar potential for purebred walleye and hybrid walleye for stocking and food fish uses.

Keywords:  Intensive, Hybrid, Walleye, Saugeye, Recycle Water System.