BACK MUSCLE

The back muscle (defined as the muscle in abdominal segment 1-5) is assessed based on their clarity. This is method used in many hatcheries to evaluate larval and post larval condition. If the muscle is clear, it is in a healthy condition. If the muscle is discolored or shows lots of striations (sometimes referred to as “grainy muscle”) it is regarded as unhealthy

• Good quality back muscle. Note the clarity of the muscle tissue.

• Good quality back muscle. This photograph is taken under different lighting conditions and with an older PL. Note the greater development of chromatophores in the exoskeleton. The muscle tissue show no discoloration or striations.
  
  
   
• Poor quality back muscle. The muscle tissue can be seen to be discolored and has a shrunken appearance. The PL appears to be close to molting which may indicate that the muscle condition will improve if left for a day or two.

• “Cloudy” back muscle. This photograph can be compared with photograph number 1. Note the cloudiness of the muscle tissue.

• Poor muscle condition. Note the striated appearance of the muscle and the discoloration.

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