white seabass

larval giant seabass

In cooperation with California state resources agencies, public utility companies, volunteer user groups and the scientific community, the
Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute responded to the depletion of ocean fisheries by beginning a white seabass (Cynoscion nobilis) hatchery to raise young fish. Called the Ocean Resources Enhancement and Hatchery Program (OREHP), the program began in 1982. Since its beginning, the program has released approximately 300,000 young white seabass into bays and near-shore areas of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California.

The young fish live in pools until 70 days of age

The Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute opened a new hatchery in Carlsbad, California in 1995. Called the Leon Raymond Hubbard, Jr. Marine Fish Hatchery, it has the potential of producing more than 350,000 young white seabass a year. By the third week of life, the baby fish outgrow their first home. At that point, aquaculturists move the fish to larger pools until they reach 70 days of age. At 70 days old, the youngsters move to a still larger "raceway" pool until being released into the ocean.

A raceway pool

Learn more about bony fishes