Observations on the behavior of the malaysian prawn,macrobrachium rosenbergii(de man), to artificial habitats†

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Abstract
Six studies examined the spatial and temporal behavior of juvenile M. rosenbergii prawns to a variety of habitat configurations and materials. Of the configurations tested, a layered habitat design was preferred. A significant (P < 0.001) preference for edge or perimeter areas of solid layer habitat units was displayed by the prawns. Modification of the layers to consist of alternating open and strip layers enhanced overall habitat utilization and caused a nearly homogenous distribution of prawns throughout the habitats. No temporal movements were observed on the habitats during daylight hours but the prawns generally exhibited a preference for darkened tank and habitat areas. Carrying capacities of vertically and horizontally arranged strip-layer habitat units ranged from about 220-260 prawns m-2 surface area and 3580-3719 m-3 habitat volume. The potential application of artificial habitats in intensive prawn nursery systems is discussed.