Premium
A Review of the Use of Ultrasonography in Fish Reproduction
Author(s) -
Novelo Noel D.,
Tiersch Terrence R.
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
north american journal of aquaculture
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.432
H-Index - 41
eISSN - 1548-8454
pISSN - 1522-2055
DOI - 10.1080/15222055.2012.672370
Subject(s) - ultrasonography , biology , fish <actinopterygii> , reproduction , ultrasound , ecology , medicine , fishery , radiology
Ultrasound imaging analysis involves development of an effective combination of physical properties, equipment, instrument settings, and protocols. This review focuses on the application of ultrasonography to fish reproduction. The goal was to assemble a comprehensive reference data set to serve as a decision‐enabling tool for potential users. The specific objectives were to (1) identify the ultrasound equipment, settings, and procedures used during examination, (2) review the fish handling procedures used during examination, and (3) review current data on sex identification and reproduction indices developed using ultrasonography. The 27 studies selected for inclusion in this review represent 21 fish species. Most (96%) of the studies reported the model name for the ultrasound unit, but only 19% reported the probe model. The most reported probe features were the frequency capability (96% of the studies) and array format (linear, sector, or annular; 81%). The majority of the studies (89%) did not report any of the control settings used. The combinations of handling and ultrasound procedures were variable even within the same species, and the majority (78%) of the studies included a form of restraint. None of the studies simultaneously integrated the use of unrestrained, unanesthetized, submersed fish with a submersed waterproof probe, which would enable the use of water as a transmission medium for ultrasound. Size, life stage, gonadal growth of reproductively active adults, and fish morphology influenced the ability to use ultrasonography for sex identification and the development and application of qualitative and quantitative reproductive indices. The utility of ultrasonography in fish reproduction has been repeatedly validated, and innovative indices for noninvasive use have been developed. However, this review identifies a clear lack of consistency in reporting of instrument settings and handling procedures and provides suggestions for standardizing the use of ultrasonography with aquatic species.