A comparative analysis of lethal and non-lethal fish sampling techniques

Abstract

FERGUSON, RACHEL. A comparative analysis of lethal and non-lethal fish sampling techniques. (Under the direction of Dr. Tamara Pandolfo.) Muscle tissue samples from fish have long been used to analyze the presence of contaminants in fish populations. However, muscle tissue collection is a lethal sampling technique. The use of lethal methods has caused concerns over collecting samples from endangered species as well as having a negative impact on ecosystems. The purpose of this literature review was to summarize the current knowledge of non-lethal fish sampling methods and to determine how they compare to the traditional lethal methods of sampling. Most studies used fin clips as the non-lethal sampling method, however, other studies utilized mucus swabs, scales, and blood samples. The use of non-lethal methods has proven to be a useful alternative to lethal methods, and results of published studies indicate that non-lethal and lethal sampling methods are generally comparable. Fin clipping is the most preferable non-lethal method due to minimal harm to the organism and the regeneration of clipped fins. More research needs to be done in order to provide further information on the efficacy legitimacy of non-lethal sampling techniques.