Impact of flow velocity on growth performance, muscle texture, and nutritional composition in seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus)

In order to investigate the effects of different flow velocity on the growth, digestive enzymes, muscle nutrient composition, and quality differences of seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus), the present study was carried out with selected seabass with body weight of 23.4 ± 0.6 g and body length of 11.1 ± 0.8 cm in a 57-day experiment at four flow velocities ( Group C (0 bl/s), Group L (0.35 ~ 0.65 bl/s), Group M (1.14 ~ 1.56 bl/s), and Group H (2.28 ~ 2.85 bl/s)). The results showed that seabass in Group M exhibited the best growth performance, with significantly higher specific growth rate (SGR), weight gain rate (WGR), and condition factor (CF) compared to other groups (p < 0.05). The activities of Trypsin (TRY) and Trypsin (LPS) were significantly elevated in Group M and Group H. Additionally, flow velocity positively influenced muscle texture, with Group M showing improved hardness and elasticity. The study also revealed that flow velocity affected the amino acid composition and fatty acid profile, with Group M displaying a higher content of essential amino acids and better overall nutritional quality. This research demonstrating that moderate flow velocity (1.14–1.56 bl/s) enhances both the growth and nutritional quality of seabass. This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of selecting flow velocity in fishery production and provides essential insights in seabass aquaculture, potentially improving economy.