It is almost thirty years since Professor G. G. Winberg established the
basis for experimental studies in fish energetics with the publication
of his monograph, Rate of Metabolism and Food Requirements of Fishes.
His ultimate aim was to develop a scientific approach to fish culture
and management, and the immense volume of literature generated in the
ensuing years has been mainly in response to the demand for information
from a rapidly expanding, world-wide aquaculture industry and to the
shortcomings of contemporary practices in fisheries management. The
purpose of this book is not to review this literature compre- hensively,
but, assuming an informed readership, to focus attention on topics in
which new knowledge and theory are beginning to be applied in practice.
Most emphasis has been placed on food; feeding; production (growth and
reproduction) and energy budgeting, as these have most influence on the
development of fish culture. Some chapters offer practical advice for
the selection of methods, and warn of pitfalls in previous approaches.
In others the influence of new theory on the interpretation of studies
in fish energetics is discussed in the context of resource allocation
and adaptation. We hope that the scope of material presented here will
have sufficient interest and value to help significantly to fulfil
Winberg's original objectives.