Journal Description
Fishes
Fishes
is an international, peer-reviewed, scientific, open access journal published monthly online by MDPI. It covers fishes and aquatic animals research. The Iberian Society of Ichthyology (SIBIC) and the Brazilian Society of Aquaculture and Aquatic Biology (Aquabio) are affiliated with Fishes and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubAg, FSTA, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Marine & Freshwater Biology)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 15.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Fishes.
Impact Factor:
2.3 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Age, Growth, and Otolith Morphometrics of Trachinus draco (L., 1758) and Trachinus radiatus (Cuvier, 1829) in the Eastern Mediterranean
Fishes 2024, 9(5), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9050152 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Trachinus draco and Trachinus radiatus are two bycatch species of low commercial value and no sufficient knowledge on their biological features. In the present study, the weight–length relationship, age, growth, and ten otolith morphometric variables of these species were investigated in the southwestern
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Trachinus draco and Trachinus radiatus are two bycatch species of low commercial value and no sufficient knowledge on their biological features. In the present study, the weight–length relationship, age, growth, and ten otolith morphometric variables of these species were investigated in the southwestern Aegean Sea for the first time. Positive allometric and isometric growth in the weight were defined in T. draco and T. radiatus. The weight–length relationship was described by the parameters α = 0.002415 and b = 3.35745 in T. draco and α = 0.007582 and b = 3.09452 in T. radiatus. The von Bertalanffy growth function parameters were L∞ = 44.51 cm, k = 0.15 year−1, and t0 = −1.31 years for T. draco and L∞ = 58.47 cm, k = 0.16 year−1, and t0 = −0.78 years for T. radiatus. Ten otolith variables (radius, length, width, area, perimeter, roundness, circularity, form factor, rectangularity, and ellipticity) showed a significant relationship with size for both species, except the ellipticity in T. radiatus. The mean values of all the otolith variables were higher in T. radiatus than in T. draco. The otolith of T. radiatus was found to become more rectangular with size as compared to the otolith of T. radiatus. The results of this work can support further research on the behavioral and ecological features of the two species.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Ecology)
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Open AccessArticle
Triple Attention Mechanism with YOLOv5s for Fish Detection
by
Wei Long, Yawen Wang, Lingxi Hu, Jintao Zhang, Chen Zhang, Linhua Jiang and Lihong Xu
Fishes 2024, 9(5), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9050151 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Traditional fish farming methods suffer from backward production, low efficiency, low yield, and environmental pollution. As a result of thorough research using deep learning technology, the industrial aquaculture model has experienced gradual maturation. A variety of complex factors makes it difficult to extract
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Traditional fish farming methods suffer from backward production, low efficiency, low yield, and environmental pollution. As a result of thorough research using deep learning technology, the industrial aquaculture model has experienced gradual maturation. A variety of complex factors makes it difficult to extract effective features, which results in less-than-good model performance. This paper proposes a fish detection method that combines a triple attention mechanism with a You Only Look Once (TAM-YOLO)model. In order to enhance the speed of model training, the process of data encapsulation incorporates positive sample matching. An exponential moving average (EMA) is incorporated into the training process to make the model more robust, and coordinate attention (CA) and a convolutional block attention module are integrated into the YOLOv5s backbone to enhance the feature extraction of channels and spatial locations. The extracted feature maps are input to the PANet path aggregation network, and the underlying information is stacked with the feature maps. The method improves the detection accuracy of underwater blurred and distorted fish images. Experimental results show that the proposed TAM-YOLO model outperforms YOLOv3, YOLOv4, YOLOv5s, YOLOv5m, and SSD, with a mAP value of 95.88%, thus providing a new strategy for fish detection.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Construction and Application of Big Data Platform and Model for the Detection and Warning of Aquatic Diseases)
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Enhancing Indoor Culture of Weather Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) and Caipira Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in a Decoupled FLOCponics System
by
Junseong Park, Ju-ae Hwang, Jongryeol Choe, Donggil Lee and Hyeongsu Kim
Fishes 2024, 9(5), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9050150 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Interest in aquaponics (AP) is increasing due to its ability to minimize sewage and maximize feed efficiency in fish farming. However, owing to limitations of intensive cultures and a lack of nutrients such as NO3 for growing crops, AP requires the use
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Interest in aquaponics (AP) is increasing due to its ability to minimize sewage and maximize feed efficiency in fish farming. However, owing to limitations of intensive cultures and a lack of nutrients such as NO3 for growing crops, AP requires the use of artificial nutrients. Therefore, novel approaches are required to develop AP-intensive culturing methods. An AP system based on biofloc technology (BFT) called FLOCponics (FP) has been recommended. Here, the productivity of the weather loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) in the FP system, BFT system, and flow-through systems (FTSs), as well as these systems’ effect on Caipira lettuce (Lactuca sativa) growth, was analyzed. To compare crop productivity, a hydroponic (HP) bed was installed. The growth rate of M. anguillicaudatus showed significant differences, at 51.1 ± 3.69% in the FP system, followed by 24.0 ± 4.16% in the BFT system and −14.3 ± 1.4% in the FTS. Its survival rates were better in the FP system (91.1 ± 2.64%) than in the BFT system (82.1 ± 10.98%) or the FTS (66.8 ± 2.75%) (p < 0.05). Total ammonia nitrogen and NO2−-N concentrations were stabilized in every plot during the experimental period. However, the NO3−-N concentration continuously increased in the BFT system but decreased in the FP system and was maintained. The shoot weight of the Caipira lettuce was 163.6 ± 8.65 g in the FP system and 149.6 ± 9.05 g in the HP system. In conclusion, FP system can provide a large amount of nutrients and improve the growth performance of both fish and crops in the FP system.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Aquaculture Production Systems)
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A Fish-Based Tool for the Quality Assessment of Portuguese Large Rivers
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António Tovar Faro, Maria Teresa Ferreira and João Manuel Oliveira
Fishes 2024, 9(5), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9050149 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Multimetric indices play a pivotal role in assessing river ecological quality, aligning with the European Water Framework Directive (EU WFD) requirements. However, indices developed specifically for large rivers are uncommon. Our objective was to develop a fish-based tool specifically tailored to assess the
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Multimetric indices play a pivotal role in assessing river ecological quality, aligning with the European Water Framework Directive (EU WFD) requirements. However, indices developed specifically for large rivers are uncommon. Our objective was to develop a fish-based tool specifically tailored to assess the ecological quality in Portuguese large rivers. Data were collected from seven sites in each of three Portuguese large rivers (Minho, Guadiana, and Tagus). Each site was classified using an environmental disturbance score, combining different pressure types, such as water chemistry, land use, and hydromorphological alterations. The Fish-based Multimetric Index for Portuguese Large Rivers (F-MMIP-LR) comprises four metrics: % native lithophilic individuals; % alien individuals; % migrant individuals; and % freshwater native individuals, representing compositional, reproductive, and migratory guilds. The index showed good performance in separating least- and most-disturbed sites. Least-disturbed sites were rated ‘high’ or ‘good’ by F-MMIP-LR, contrasting with no such classification for most-disturbed sites, highlighting index robustness. The three rivers presented a wide range of F-MMIP-LR values across the gradient of ‘bad’ to ‘high’, indicating that, on a large spatial extent, the biological condition was substantially altered. The F-MMIP-LR provides vital information for managers and decision-makers, guiding restoration efforts and strengthening conservation initiatives in line with the WFD.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomonitoring and Conservation of Freshwater & Marine Fishes)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessing Prospects of Integrating Asian Carp Polyculture in Europe: A Nature-Based Solution under Climate Change?
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Oksana Nekrasova, Mihails Pupins, Volodymyr Tytar, Leonid Fedorenko, Oleksandr Potrokhov, Arturs Škute, Andris Čeirāns, Kathrin Theissinger and Jean-Yves Georges
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040148 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
Aquaculture’s role in addressing food security has grown, with a spotlight on Asian carp species. Polyculture, i.e. cultivating multiple fish species in a single system, is being increasingly adopted for its resource efficiency and economic benefits. This practice for Asian fish for food
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Aquaculture’s role in addressing food security has grown, with a spotlight on Asian carp species. Polyculture, i.e. cultivating multiple fish species in a single system, is being increasingly adopted for its resource efficiency and economic benefits. This practice for Asian fish for food and ornamental purposes is gaining traction in Europe despite their invasive potential. Rising temperatures due to climate change offer an opportunity for thermophilic Asian carps (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and Aristichthys nobilis). Using GIS modeling (Maxent), we identified the possible settlement of Asian carp in Northern Europe amidst climate change. We analyzed carp global distribution centers, assessed the potential carp spread in Europe, and evaluated their potential suitability for polyculture systems. By 2050, H. molitrix may extend its range to 58–62° N latitude, with a potential 1.7-fold habitat increase, while A. nobilis, which are more heat-tolerant, may move north to 52–58° N latitude, with a 1.3-fold potential increase. Despite the slight ecological differences in their native habitats, niche modeling indicates that these carp can occupy similar niches in Europe (proven statistically). The eventuality of using Asian species for polyculture in Europe presents both opportunities and challenges in the face of a changing climate as long as invasion risks are prevented. Envisaging such polyculture, yet very carefully for the protection of ecosystems, can help food security.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Spatial Distribution of Fishes)
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Environmental DNA Characterization of the Fish Species Composition in the Mukawa River and Adjacent Habitats
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Hyojin Ahn and Michael J. Miller
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040147 - 21 Apr 2024
Abstract
The diverse freshwater fish fauna of the Japanese archipelago is distributed among four main island landmasses, which include Hokkaido in the north, with many diadromous species. One relatively well-preserved river drainage along the southern coast of Central Hokkaido is the Mukawa River. Fish
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The diverse freshwater fish fauna of the Japanese archipelago is distributed among four main island landmasses, which include Hokkaido in the north, with many diadromous species. One relatively well-preserved river drainage along the southern coast of Central Hokkaido is the Mukawa River. Fish fauna surveys in the Mukawa River were mostly in downstream areas and the fish diversity is not well-documented among the upper, lower river, and coastal environments. Fish communities in the river, estuary, and sea were sampled using eDNA analysis to evaluate upstream and downstream species detections, and tidal and spatial detection variation near the river mouth. The number of species was higher at the river mouth and nearshore sites compared to the river and offshore. Fish detections reflected life history categories (freshwater resident, diadromous, brackish, or marine) and the environments. Similarity analysis showed that fish species compositions were divided into (1) upstream and midstream, (2) downstream and river mouth, (3) adjacent shore, and (4) offshore. Salmonid, cyprinid, loach, and sculpin species were detected in the river, compared to a mixture of species downstream and along the coast. This rapid assessment type study demonstrated that eDNA survey methodology would be effective for multiple river comparative surveys, seasonality studies, or evaluating possible effects of cross-river weirs or dams.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Ecology)
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Safety, Processing, and Utilization of Fishery Products
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Upali Samarajeewa
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040146 - 21 Apr 2024
Abstract
Global marine fish harvests have reached a plateau over the last decade, and efforts to increase aquaculture tend to face limitations in terms of water resources and contamination problems. Of the current fish harvest, at least 50% is discarded as waste. The current
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Global marine fish harvests have reached a plateau over the last decade, and efforts to increase aquaculture tend to face limitations in terms of water resources and contamination problems. Of the current fish harvest, at least 50% is discarded as waste. The current situation requires efforts to process, preserve, and utilize the fish capture to minimize waste. Chemical and microbiological contamination limit the utilization of harvested fish. There is a need to improve fish preservation to minimize spoilage and to process them into more appealing products. Instead of resorting to individual food-processing methods, the efficiency of processing could best be increased by a combination of conventional and modern processing methods or by combinations of modern processing methods. Fish waste is a rich source of oils containing essential fatty acids, polypeptides, and amino polysaccharides that could be utilized through the upscaling of current scientifically proven methods to new processing technologies. The separation of collagens, gelatins, bioactive peptides, edible fish oils, and chitosan form the primary stages in the utilization of fish waste. The products need purification to meet food quality and safety standards and to have desirable industrial characteristics. The diversity of information and products generated through new methods require advanced data handling and prediction systems, such as artificial intelligence, to address food safety and to derive the best out of fish processing and utilization.
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(This article belongs to the Section Processing and Comprehensive Utilization of Fishery Products)
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Biochemical Composition of Eggs, Larvae and Tissues of Macrobrachium tenellum Females Fed Diets with Different Lipid and Protein Levels
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Omar Alejandro Peña-Almaraz, Manuel Alejandro Vargas-Ceballos, Edilmar Cortés-Jacinto and Fernando Vega-Villasante
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040145 - 21 Apr 2024
Abstract
One way to approach the nutritional requirements of native shrimp, necessary to consolidate their culture, is to know their biochemical composition. The effect of feeding two levels of lipids (4 and 12% L) and four levels of proteins (30, 35, 40 and 45%
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One way to approach the nutritional requirements of native shrimp, necessary to consolidate their culture, is to know their biochemical composition. The effect of feeding two levels of lipids (4 and 12% L) and four levels of proteins (30, 35, 40 and 45% P) in M. tenellum females was evaluated with respect to the biochemical composition of their eggs (EG), larvae (LR), gonad (GO) and hepatopancreas (HP). Total protein (TP), total carbohydrate (TC) and total lipid (TL) were estimated. In EG, L and P levels influence TP and TL; TP increases in diets higher than P35. In LR, there are no differences (p > 0.05) in TP and in TL, only diets L4P40 and L12P30 were different (p < 0.05). In GO, there is no trend in TP differences; in TC there was variation in the range of the data and TL was higher in L4P30 and L4P35. In HP, the diets with L4 obtained the highest TP values (p < 0.05); the L12 diets were higher in TL (p < 0.05). In general, diets with an inclusion of L12 showed the highest TP, TC and TL means, within this lipid level the P30 diet stood out; therefore, it is recommended to use a diet with L12P30 in the formulation of balanced feed for the species.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition, Physiology and Metabolism of Crustaceans)
Open AccessArticle
Comparison of Bacterial Community Composition in Gut of Chinese Mitten Crabs from Three Distinct Rivers in Korea
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Hyung-Eun An, Adeel Malik, Jeongho Lee, Min-Ho Mun, Kang Hyun Lee, Hah Young Yoo and Chang-Bae Kim
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040144 - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
The Chinese mitten crab (CMC) also known as Eriocheir sinensis has great significance in the aquaculture industry. The bacterial communities inhabiting the CMC’s gut may differ depending on the host habitat and can aid in their normal biological functioning. These microbes are also
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The Chinese mitten crab (CMC) also known as Eriocheir sinensis has great significance in the aquaculture industry. The bacterial communities inhabiting the CMC’s gut may differ depending on the host habitat and can aid in their normal biological functioning. These microbes are also known to have certain effects on their flavor. In this study, we utilized MiSeq high-throughput sequencing technology to explore the diversity of bacterial communities in the gut of CMCs from three different geographical locations in Korea: the Geum (GD), Han (HD), and Tamjin (TD) rivers. Although most of the environmental parameters were similar at the three sites, significant differences in conductivity (CDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), and salinity were observed. The results show that CMCs sampled from these locations exhibited distinct microbial composition and abundance. For example, the genus Candidatus Hepatoplasma displayed significantly higher abundance in CMCs from HD than those in the other locations, suggesting nutritional stress. Similarly, the crabs collected from TD showed a higher abundance of pathogenic Helicobacter than those from HD and GD sites. We also observed differences in the amino acid, nucleotide, and lactic acid concentrations between different tissues such as the muscle, hepatopancreas, and testis of CMCs. However, only small differences were observed when these characteristics were compared in CMCs from different locations. Our results offer important insights into the intestinal bacterial composition in CMCs which in turn may help in designing better culturing strategies for these important species of crabs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquaculture Ecology and the Environmental Microbiome)
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Health Insights from Nematode Larval Characterization in Greater Lizardfish, Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795) (Teleostei, Synodontidae)
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Younes Ghahvei, Mohammad Mirzaei, Shahrzad Azizi, Shadi Hashemnia and Shokoofeh Shamsi
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040143 - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Fish health is of significant ecological and economic importance. In response to public observations of parasite-like structures in a popular edible fish, this study aimed to characterize nematode larvae commonly found in the muscle and body cavity of Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795),
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Fish health is of significant ecological and economic importance. In response to public observations of parasite-like structures in a popular edible fish, this study aimed to characterize nematode larvae commonly found in the muscle and body cavity of Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795), a commercially important fish species inhabiting the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea. This fish, locally known as Hasoom, holds substantial culinary importance, being a staple in the diets of millions residing in countries around the Persian Gulf. A total of 458 Saurida tumbil specimens were obtained from fish markets between June 2022 and May 2023. Subsequent examination revealed the presence of a total of 6132 nematode larvae. Nematodes found in the body cavity were identified as belonging to the genus Hysterothylacium sp., family Raphidascarididae, while those in the muscle were identified as Anisakis sp. larval type, family Anisakidae. Histopathology results suggested that these parasites may have adverse health impacts on their fish host. Notably, both nematode genera were found in the third larval stage, which is known to be the infective stage for anisakidosis. Given the reported cases of anisakidosis among people living in the study region, it is strongly recommended that fish be properly cooked before consumption to mitigate health risks.
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(This article belongs to the Section Fish Pathology and Parasitology)
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Using qPCR to Identify Potential Effects of Thermal Conditions during Embryogenesis on Mitochondrial DNA Copy Number in Juvenile Brown Trout Salmo trutta
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Ann Erlandsson, Giedrė Ašmonaitė, Bror Jonsson and Larry Greenberg
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040142 - 19 Apr 2024
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Changes in the number, structure, and function of mitochondria during the early life stages of animals can play an important role for an organism’s metabolic rate, growth, and health. Previous studies have shown that juvenile brown trout (Salmo trutta) subjected to
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Changes in the number, structure, and function of mitochondria during the early life stages of animals can play an important role for an organism’s metabolic rate, growth, and health. Previous studies have shown that juvenile brown trout (Salmo trutta) subjected to elevated temperatures during the embryonic stage respond phenotypically with a reduced metabolic rate. The aim of this study was to explore if embryonic temperature affects the mitochondria content of young brown trout and as such explains the previously found differences in metabolic rates. Here, we optimize a quantitative PCR (qPCR) method for the mitochondria cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene, and then use the method as a proxy for mitochondrial DNA content. We hypothesize that young trout subjected to elevated temperatures during the embryonic stage respond phenotypically with a reduced mitochondrial DNA content. To test this hypothesis, we subjected brown trout to either control ambient (4.4 ± 1.5 °C) or elevated temperatures (7.1 ± 0.6 °C) during embryogenesis. Subsequently, we extracted DNA from liver and white muscle tissue of juvenile brown trout from the two different incubation temperature treatments and successively optimized qPCR for mitochondrial DNA. We found that the amount of mitochondria DNA in liver tissue was 18 times higher than in white muscle tissue, but there was no significant difference in mitochondria content in liver or muscle tissue between brown trout exposed to elevated and ambient control temperatures during embryogenesis. We conclude that reduced metabolic rate is not likely associated with mitochondria DNA content. We also suggest that qPCR is a simple and cost-effective method to quantify mitochondria DNA in frozen and partly degraded tissue from different treatment groups and a useful proxy for identification of differences in mitochondria number.
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Comparison of Morphometric Parameters, Nutritional Composition, and Textural Properties of Seven Crustaceans Species
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Zhigang Yang, Qingqing Jiang, Wuxiao Zhang, Silei Xia, Hongyan Tian, Fei Liu, Wenping Yang, Yebing Yu, Yanmin Wu, Yongzhi Zhu, Zhiqiang Xu, Zemao Gu, Aimin Wang and Aqin Chen
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040141 - 17 Apr 2024
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In order to study the muscle quality of different crustaceans, we aim to provide a comprehensive assessment of their muscle quality characteristics as a theoretical reference. In this work, seven major species of farmed and consumer crustaceans were selected, including crayfish (
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In order to study the muscle quality of different crustaceans, we aim to provide a comprehensive assessment of their muscle quality characteristics as a theoretical reference. In this work, seven major species of farmed and consumer crustaceans were selected, including crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), freshwater prawns (Macrobrachium rosenbergii), pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon), kuruma prawns (Penaeus japonicus), river prawns (Macrobranchium nipponense), and Chinese shrimp (Penaeus chinensis). Their morphometric parameters, nutritional composition, textural properties, and physical and chemical indexes were comparatively analyzed. The results showed that the meat content (MC, about 14.78%) of crayfish was significantly lower than that of the other six species. By contrast, pacific white shrimp had the highest MC, although the MCs of black tiger shrimp, kuruma prawns, and Chinese shrimp are greater than 40%. All seven crustacean species were high in protein and low in fat, while pacific white shrimp had the highest crude protein, crude lipid, and crude ash content compared to the other crustaceans. The content of threonine (Thr) was the highest in crayfish. The content of methionine (Met) and lysine (Lys) was the highest in freshwater prawns. The content of isoleucine (Ile), leucine (Leu), and non–essential amino acid (NEAA) was the highest in pacific white shrimp. C18:2n-6 (linoleic acid, LA) was the highest in freshwater prawns and pacific white shrimp; C18:3n-3 (linolenic acid, LNA), C20:4n-6 (arachidonic acid, AA), unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were all the highest in crayfish; and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) was the highest in freshwater prawns, but the content was not significantly different from crayfish, pacific white shrimp, black tiger shrimp, and Chinese shrimp. Pacific white shrimp had the highest values for hardness, cohesiveness, gumminess, and chewiness. The redness values of crayfish, black tiger shrimp, and Chinese shrimp were significantly higher than those of the other three species except kuruma prawns. Compared to other crustaceans, river prawns had the highest drip loss and cooking loss. Black tiger shrimp and Chinese shrimp had the lowest cooking loss rates. The research shows that the tail muscle of the seven species of crustaceans is rich in protein, essential amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids and low in fat, representing a high-quality protein. Among these crustaceans, the main essential amino acids and essential fatty acids in the tail muscle of pacific white shrimp, freshwater prawns, and crayfish are higher in content and better in nutritional value.
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Two Genotypes of Streptococcus iniae Are the Causative Agents of Diseased Ornamental Fish, Green Terror Cichlid (Aequidens rivulatus)
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Zhang Luo, Xiaohui Bai, Shuang Hao, Mengyu Wang, Yongjiang Wu and Hanchang Sun
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040140 - 17 Apr 2024
Abstract
Green terror cichlid (Aequidens rivulatus) is a popular tropical freshwater ornamental fish. In 2021, an unknown disease was observed in cultured A. rivulatus in Tianjin, China, with a cumulative mortality rate of 25% within 7 days of onset. The main clinical
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Green terror cichlid (Aequidens rivulatus) is a popular tropical freshwater ornamental fish. In 2021, an unknown disease was observed in cultured A. rivulatus in Tianjin, China, with a cumulative mortality rate of 25% within 7 days of onset. The main clinical signs were scale loss, skin ulceration, and slight bleeding. Histopathological observation revealed obvious damage to the liver, spleen, and kidney of diseased fish. In addition, abundant granulomas were observed in the spleen and head kidney of the diseased fish. To define the potential pathogens from A. rivulatus, bacteria were isolated from the visceral tissue of diseased fish with conventional methods. An artificial infection experiment was carried out to prove the pathogenicity of the isolated bacteria. The strains HG-2021-1 and HG-2021-3 were isolated from diseased fish and identified as being responsible for the disease. They were identified as Streptococcus iniae based on physiological and biochemical tests, lctO gene detection, and 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. According to the result of multilocus sequence typing (MLST), HG-2021-1 and HG-2021-3 belong to different genotypes of S. iniae. Furthermore, they were found to contain the virulence genes pgmA, scpI, cpsD, and pdi, and the median lethal dose (LD50) for A. rivulatus was 1.8 × 106 Colony-Forming Units (CFU)/mL and 6.6 × 106 CFU/mL, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first report of fish coinfected by two genotypes of S. iniae.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Aquatic Diseases and Immunity in Aquaculture)
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Natural Food Intake and Its Contribution to Tambaqui Growth in Fertilized and Unfertilized Ponds
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Adriana Ferreira Lima, Anderson Guilherme Pereira dos Reis, Vladimir Eliodoro Costa and Wagner Cotroni Valenti
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040139 - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Natural food available in ponds can complement formulated feed in fed aquaculture. This study elucidated the natural food intake and its contribution to tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) growth in fertilized and unfertilized ponds, using stable isotope and stomach contents analyses. Additionally, it
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Natural food available in ponds can complement formulated feed in fed aquaculture. This study elucidated the natural food intake and its contribution to tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) growth in fertilized and unfertilized ponds, using stable isotope and stomach contents analyses. Additionally, it described the impact of fertilization management on natural food availability, fish performance, and production costs. Tambaqui juveniles (93.8 ± 15.0 g) were stocked (0.55 fish/m2) in fertilized (Fert) and unfertilized (NoFert) ponds (600 m2) for a culture period of 10 months in quadruplicate. A lower food conversion ratio was observed in Fert ponds. The main natural food items ingested by tambaqui were insects, vegetables, and cladocerans. Plankton contributed 39.4% and 10.7% of muscle formation in Fert and NoFert ponds, respectively. Pond fertilization (2.45 g of nitrogen and 0.80 g of phosphorus per square meter every two weeks) did not significantly affect fish growth, survival, or productivity but had a slightly influence on water quality parameters. However, fertilization increased the zooplankton density (through phytoplankton) in the water, thereby increasing autochthonous food availability for tambaqui consumption. This species demonstrates the ability to alternate between natural food sources and commercial feed without compromising its development. Consequently, tambaqui exhibits suitability for farming within restorative and integrated aquaculture systems as well as intensive systems reliant on commercial feed.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Aquaculture and Monoculture of Low-Trophic Species)
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The Effects of Dietary Fermented Soybean Residue on the Growth, Antioxidant Capacity, Digestive Enzyme Activities, and Microbial Compositions of the Intestine in Furong Crucian Carp (Furong Carp♀ × Red Crucian Carp♂)
by
Hongquan Wang, Zheming Zhang, Feilong Li, Liang Hu, Tiaoyi Xiao, Yurong Zhao and Mengxi Yang
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040138 - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
An 8-week feeding experiment aimed to investigate the effects of fermented soybean residue in diets on the growth performance, serum antioxidant parameters, intestinal digestive capacity, and microbial composition of the hindgut of Furong crucian carp. The feeds were formulated to contain 0%, 6%,
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An 8-week feeding experiment aimed to investigate the effects of fermented soybean residue in diets on the growth performance, serum antioxidant parameters, intestinal digestive capacity, and microbial composition of the hindgut of Furong crucian carp. The feeds were formulated to contain 0%, 6%, 12%, 18%, and 24% fermented soybean residue (CON, FSR6, FSR12, FSR18, and FSR24, respectively), respectively, to form five diets (crude protein: 33%; crude lipid: 5%). The results showed that incorporating 6% fermented soybean residue into the diet significantly increased the weight gain rate (WGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) and decreased the feed coefficient rate (p < 0.05). Through regression analysis of WGR and SGR, the optimal levels of the dietary fermented soybean residue of Furong crucian carp were determined to be 6.78% and 7.06%. Incorporating fermented soybean residue into the diet decreased the lipid content of the whole body and the levels of glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride in the serum of Furong crucian carp. The inclusion of 6% and 12% fermented soybean residue in the diet markedly increased the antioxidant capacity, intestinal amylase activity, and intestinal villous height of Furong crucian carp (p < 0.05). At the 6% level, fermented soybean residue significantly increased the abundance of Romboutsia and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 while significantly decreasing the abundance of Vibrio (p < 0.05), indicating that a 6% level of fermented soybean residue was beneficial for intestinal health. In conclusion, incorporating 6–7% fermented soybean residue into the diet of Furong crucian carp was recommended.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Feeding)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Multi-Scale Coral Reef and Seascape Habitat Variables Combine to Influence Reef Fish Assemblages
by
Katie T. Sievers, Eva C. McClure, Rene A. Abesamis and Garry R. Russ
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040137 - 15 Apr 2024
Abstract
While benthic characteristics of coral reef habitats are a major driver of the structure of coral reef fish assemblages, non-reef habitats adjacent to coral reefs (e.g., mangroves, seagrass beds, and macroalgal beds) can affect reef fish assemblages. Here, we investigate how reef fish
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While benthic characteristics of coral reef habitats are a major driver of the structure of coral reef fish assemblages, non-reef habitats adjacent to coral reefs (e.g., mangroves, seagrass beds, and macroalgal beds) can affect reef fish assemblages. Here, we investigate how reef fish assemblages respond to local-scale benthic habitats within a coral reef and larger-scale adjacent seascape features (habitats within 500 m of coral reefs) on Siquijor Island in the Philippines. We examined an abundance of species for the entire reef fish assemblage and within the assemblages of parrotfishes (subfamily Scarinae) and wrasses (family Labridae). Five distinct habitat types were identified in a cluster analysis, which incorporated benthic characteristics within coral reefs and habitats adjacent to coral reefs. We found that the diversity and structure of coral reef fish assemblages were affected by benthic characteristics within coral reefs and also by benthic habitat types adjacent to coral reefs. Individual species responses and juveniles of certain species demonstrated uniquely high abundances in habitat clusters characterized by the non-reef habitats surrounding coral reefs. Considering coral reef habitats and adjacent non-reef habitats as a holistic, interconnected seascape will provide better estimations of the drivers of the structures of coral reef fish assemblages.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understanding and Managing the Spatial, Population and Ecological Dynamics of Coral Reef Fish)
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Open AccessArticle
Recent Findings on Spawning Patterns and Recommendations for the Fishery Management of the Southern Red Snapper—Lutjanus purpureus (Poey, 1866)—On the Amazon Continental Shelf of Brazil
by
Larissa da Costa Pinheiro, Beatrice Padovani Ferreira, Paulo Emílio Santos, Ualerson Peixoto and Bianca Bentes
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040136 - 15 Apr 2024
Abstract
The southern red snapper, Lutjanus purpureus, is one of the primary fishery resources of the Amazon continental shelf. Due to the demand for specimens of less than 900 g in weight, increased fishing effort focusing on this size class has led to
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The southern red snapper, Lutjanus purpureus, is one of the primary fishery resources of the Amazon continental shelf. Due to the demand for specimens of less than 900 g in weight, increased fishing effort focusing on this size class has led to a drastic decrease in catches. The present study was based on the analysis of cellular structures in the female gonads (formation of oocytes and other reproductive tissues) to identify reproductive processes and evaluate the effectiveness of current fishery management practices. The presence of postovulatory follicles (POFs) peaked in April, which was interpreted as a period of intense spawning. In addition to POFs, hydrated oocytes peaked in July, indicating either reproductive continuity or a second peak, based on the presence of atretic oocytes and atresia. Given that the local snapper fishery preferentially targets very young individuals, an extension of the closed season from March to July would be recommendable to guarantee the reproductive potential of the spawning stock.
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(This article belongs to the Section Fishery Economics, Policy, and Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Environmentally Friendly and Efficient Methods for Mitigating the Density of Ascidian Fouling in Mediterranean Mussel Farming
by
Dimitrios Tsotsios, Dimitrios K. Papadopoulos, Maria V. Alvanou, Ioannis Georgoulis, Athanasios Lattos, Basile Michaelidis, Konstantinos Feidantsis, Ioannis A. Giantsis and John A. Theodorou
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040135 - 14 Apr 2024
Abstract
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Ascidian biofouling generates significant challenges to bivalve aquaculture. Their rapid spread across almost every available surface leads to increased maintenance costs and reduced yields in shellfish farming. In addition, ascidians may introduce pathogens or toxins, further compromising the health and marketability of bivalve
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Ascidian biofouling generates significant challenges to bivalve aquaculture. Their rapid spread across almost every available surface leads to increased maintenance costs and reduced yields in shellfish farming. In addition, ascidians may introduce pathogens or toxins, further compromising the health and marketability of bivalve stocks and thereby necessitating strict management strategies to manage these impacts. The aim of this study was the evaluation of different management practices for eliminating ascidian fouling and the identification of the best method for Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamarck, 1819) aquaculture farms. The effects of different anti-fouling treatments as well as their interactive outcomes were examined by conducting two experiments. Various experimental procedures were applied, including the temporally differential washing of mussels, air exposure and immersion in 50 ppt and 70 ppt salinity solutions, as well as the combination of these applications. All treatments reduced the number of ascidian colonies on mussel socks but at varying proportions. Immersing mussel socks in a 70 ppt salinity solution followed by air exposure for 1 day was the most efficient method and led to a 93% eradication.
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Calanus finmarchicus Hydrolysate Inclusion on Diet Attractiveness for Whiteleg Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
by
Isak Bøgwald, Simon Herrig, Alice Marie Pedersen, Sileshi Gizachew Wubshet and Karl-Erik Eilertsen
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040134 - 13 Apr 2024
Abstract
Shrimp feed formulations have moved towards less fish meal and more of the readily available and cheaper plant proteins. To counteract the lower attractiveness and palatability of plant proteins, feeds are supplemented with ingredients known to have chemoattractive properties that will increase feed
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Shrimp feed formulations have moved towards less fish meal and more of the readily available and cheaper plant proteins. To counteract the lower attractiveness and palatability of plant proteins, feeds are supplemented with ingredients known to have chemoattractive properties that will increase feed intake. This study investigated the putative chemoattractive effect of Calanus finmarchicus hydrolysate, when used as a dietary supplement in shrimp feeds. C. finmarchicus is a zooplankton species native to the northern Atlantic Ocean and is a novel and sustainable raw material for shrimp feed products. Diet attractiveness was evaluated in a 24-day feeding trial with whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) by measuring the intake of 12 diets with various levels of fish meal, calanus hydrolysate, and krill (Euphausia superba) meal. Higher inclusion rates of both ingredients resulted in increased feed intake, and supplementing the high fish meal diet with calanus hydrolysate gave a statistically significant higher feed intake. Low molecular weight peptides, chemoattractive amino acids, and the water-soluble nature of the hydrolysate could explain the chemoattractive properties observed in the study.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Feeding)
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Open AccessArticle
Enhancing Fish Auction with Deep Learning and Computer Vision: Automated Caliber and Species Classification
by
Javier Jareño, Guillermo Bárcena-González, Jairo Castro-Gutiérrez, Remedios Cabrera-Castro and Pedro L. Galindo
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040133 - 13 Apr 2024
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The accurate labeling of species and size of specimens plays a pivotal role in fish auctions conducted at fishing ports. These labels, among other relevant information, serve as determinants of the objectivity of the auction preparation process, underscoring the indispensable nature of a
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The accurate labeling of species and size of specimens plays a pivotal role in fish auctions conducted at fishing ports. These labels, among other relevant information, serve as determinants of the objectivity of the auction preparation process, underscoring the indispensable nature of a reliable labeling system. Historically, this task has relied on manual processes, rendering it vulnerable to subjective interpretations by the involved personnel, therefore compromising the value of the merchandise. Consequently, the digitization and implementation of an automated labeling system are proposed as a viable solution to this ongoing challenge. This study presents an automatic system for labeling species and size, leveraging pre-trained convolutional neural networks. Specifically, the performance of VGG16, EfficientNetV2L, Xception, and ResNet152V2 networks is thoroughly examined, incorporating data augmentation techniques and fine-tuning strategies. The experimental findings demonstrate that for species classification, the EfficientNetV2L network excels as the most proficient model, achieving an average F-Score of 0.932 in its automatic mode and an average F-Score of 0.976 in its semi-automatic mode. Concerning size classification, a semi-automatic model is introduced, where the Xception network emerges as the superior model, achieving an average F-Score of 0.949.
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