Characterizing the physiological correlates of post-release mortality in a model sportfish species

Recreational angling represents an economically and culturally important activity worldwide. However, stresses associated with catching a fish, particularly exhaustive exercise, can result in an impaired physiological condition and delayed mortality following the fish’s release which are harmful to the fish’s health and well-being. Additionally, because fish are cold-blooded, the degree to which angling affects fish survival is thought to be influenced by water temperatures; a significant concern with global climate change. Currently, the specific mechanism(s) that contribute to fish mortality after an angling event are currently unknown. The main objectives of this research are to determine the specific physiological pathways that cause a fish to die following an angling event (i.e. exhaustive exercise) and how temperature (i.e. climate change) can influence this effect. This will be done using barramundi, a species of fish native to Australia that is a popular sportfish. TO BE CONT’D

Faculty Supervisor:

Steven Cooke

Student:

Partner:

Deakin University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

Carleton University

Program: