The objective of this work was to evaluate the use of probiotics in the production of postlarvae of pink shrimp (Farfantepenaeus brasiliensis). A completely randomized experimental design was used, with two treatments - use of probiotics (Bacillus spp.), and a control using antibiotic (erythromycin) -, and four replicates. Postlarvae in the PL1 stage were stocked in each experimental unit (3.0 L) and cultured until stage PL10. Water quality variables and the development of the bacteria of the genus Vibrio, in the culture water, were monitored throughout the experiment. At the end of the experimental period, postlarvae were evaluated qualitatively and for survival, weight, and length. Regarding water quality variables, only nitrite was significantly higher in the antibiotic treatment. For the variables weight and length, there were no significant differences between treatments. No significant differences between treatments were observed in postlarvae quality and in the concentration of Vibrio spp. in the water. The use of antibiotics may be replaced by probiotics during production of F. brasiliensis postlarvae.
Bacillus; Farfantepenaeus brasiliensis; Vibrio; antibiotic; growth; survival
