Idiopathic muscle necrosis in the Norway lobster, Nephrops norvegicus (L.): aetiology, pathology and progression to bacteraemia

The pathology and progression of idiopathic muscle necrosis (IMN) in Nephrops norvegicus and possible aetiologies have been investigated. Trawl capture, aerial exposure and handling initiate IMN, and the condition can be induced through periods of aerial exposure alone, in the absence of trawling. Within 24-48 h after trawl capture IMN progresses to a multi-species bacterial septicaemia, with moribund animals exhibiting clinical signs. The aetiology of this condition has been examined using molecular (16S rRNA gene sequencing) and biochemical (standard taxonomic assays, Biolog) criteria to characterize bacterial isolates from moribund and healthy animals. Histopathology of the IMN phase reveals a loss of sarcomeric structure with necrotic lesions containing pyknotic nuclei, fragments of myofibrils and connective tissue elements. In the bacterial phase there is extensive loss of abdominal muscle structure, and the presence of rod-shaped Gram-negative bacteria in the degrading tissues. The results demonstrate that the IMN condition is connected to stressful conditions imposed on N. norvegicus, but involves no pathogenic agents. This is followed by an opportunistic bacterial infection that causes further tissue spoilage. It is believed that the primary cause of both IMN and bacteraemia is imposed stress, but they are expressed in different time courses.     

Improving the effectiveness of escape windows in directed Norway lobster Nephrops norvegicus trawl fisheries

A substantial improvement in the bycatch selectivity of Norway lobster Nephrops norvegicus trawls is required, particularly with respect to cod Gadus morhua, whose stocks are at low levels in several areas. Conventional escape windows are not adequate to properly release cod and other bycatch species caught in the trawls. To address this issue, we developed a novel sorting box concept consisting of a four-panel section with a window on the top in order to improve the escape of cod and other bycatch species through an escape window while retaining the target catch of Norway lobster. The concept was tested on a commercial trawler in Kattegat and Skagerrak. Two different window mesh sizes and two different sorting box heights were tested using a traditional codend cover and a dual codend cover. We observed greatly reduced bycatches of both cod and other fish species compared to a standard codend. The reduction in bycatch decreased with decreasing mesh size and increasing height of the sorting box. Escape of Norway lobster through the escape window was limited. A modified version of the sorting box concept was implemented in the Kattegat fishery from 2009 onwards.     

A general review of mesh selection for Nephrops norvegicus (L.)

The techniques used in Nephrops mesh selection studies are described and recent literature on the subject is reviewed. It would appear that Nephrops selection has a shallow ogive, giving a wide selection range (L₇₅₋₂₅). The various factors affecting selection are discussed and the importance of studying whole trawl selection is emphasised. Various gear designs are described, and it is concluded that Nephrops fishing ideally requires a gear that steepens the selection ogive, releases undersized whitefish, and remains economically viable.     

Interactions between fishing strategies of Nephrops trawlers in the Bay of Biscay and Norway lobster diel activity patterns

Abstract  Norway lobster, Nephrops norvegicus (L.), in the Bay of Biscay exhibited diel activity patterns with more individuals outside their burrows at dawn and dusk, increasing catchability at these times. Data from an on board observer programme on Nephrops trawlers between 2002 and 2005 were used to assess variability in catchability in commercial catches. Catch numbers per haul varied spatially and between months, but no signal for diel variations was found. Fishing strategies developed by the Nephrops trawlers had several components. On a seasonal level, they started around sunrise. On a haul level, haul duration decreased from haul to haul, with the longest hauls taking place at the time of the highest catchability. By-catch of hake, Merluccius merluccius (L.), increased more than proportionally with haul duration.     

The use of at‐sea‐sampling data to dissociate environmental variability in Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) catches to improve resource exploitation efficiency within the Skagerrak/Kattegat trawl fishery

Research into the influence of environmental variables on the behaviour of Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus), and hence catch rates, dates back to the 1960s (e.g., Höglund and Dybern, Diurnal and seasonal variations in the catch‐composition of Nephrops norvegicus (L.) at the Swedish west coast. ICES CM 1965/I46; Simpson, Variations in the catches of Nephrops norvegicus at different times of day and night. Rapport et Proés‐verbaux des Réunions Conseil permanent international pour 1'Exploration de la Mer 156:186). However, the use of fishery‐dependent data in identifying influential factors is relatively limited and only includes a number of papers on a limited dataset (e.g., Redant and De Clark, Diurnal variations in CPUE and length composition of the catches in a Nephrops directed fishery in the Central North Sea. ICES CM 1984/K:3; Maynou and Sardà, Influence of environmental factors on commercial trawl catches of Nephrops norvegicus (L.). ICES J. Mar. Sci. 58:1318). Here, we aimed to dissociate environmental variability in Norway lobster catches to improve resource exploitation efficiency within the Skagerrak and Kattegat trawl fisheries by utilising data collected as part of an extensive at‐sea‐sampling programme spanning 16 years. Catch rates were modelled using Generalized Additive Mixed Models (GAMMs) and considered a range of response variables, including depth, temperature, current speed, season, moon phase and time of day. The results obtained herein showed that time of day, season, depth, temperature, year, trawl type and location all significantly affect catch rates of Nephrops.     

Trawl catch composition in relation to Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus L.) abundance on the Farn Deeps grounds, NE England

Management of fisheries directed at a particular species (the target) is often complicated by the capture of other species (the bycatch), each of which may be subject to competing management objectives. Optimal management depends upon a good understanding of how catches of the target species vary in relation to bycatch of other species of commercial and conservation concern. This paper considers the composition of trawl catches taken on a Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) ground off the NE coast of England, examining the factors that determine catch rates of Nephrops and various commercial finfish species taken as bycatch. We describe the results of a trawl survey undertaken using four commercial vessels deploying standard commercial gear. Only about 19% of the variance in Nephrops catch rates could be accounted for by variations in local density, as measured independently by underwater television survey of Nephrops burrows. Variations in Nephrops catch rates were dominated by changes over time, particularly in relation to tidal state. Five commercial bycatch species were taken alongside Nephrops in significant quantities. Catch rates of haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), whiting (Merlangius merlangus) and lemon sole (Microstomus kitt) varied independently of Nephrops, whereas catches of cod (Gadus morhua) and plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) were inversely related to Nephrops. We conclude that it is possible for the commercial Nephrops fishery to use spatial and temporal targeting to maximise catches of N. norvegicus whilst minimising the bycatch of some fish species. If catch statistics are used to identify Nephrops-directed fishing métiers for fishery management purposes it is vital that data are examined at the level of individual hauls or fishing trips. Aggregation of data at a higher level risks obscuring the effectiveness with which the fishery is targeted at Nephrops.     

Herpesviral haematopoietic necrosis of goldfish, Carassius auratus (L.)

Abstract. In the spring of 1992 and 1993, an epizootic with severe mortality occurred among cultured goldfish. Carassius auratus (L.), in Aichi and Nara Prefectures in Japan. A herpes-virus was isolated from moribund goldfish that induced cytopathic effects in FHM and EPC cells. The isolate was sensitive to IUdR (5-iodo-2-deoxyuridine), acid (pH 3) and ether. Transmission studies confirmed the pathogenicity of the viral isolate for goldfish while it was not pathogenic for fancy carp, Cyprinus carpio L. Diseased fish had no visible external signs except for listlessness, but internally there was softening and discolouration of the spleen and kidney, and necrotic foci in the haematopoietic tissue, splenic pulp, pancreas, and lamina propria and submucosa of the intestine. Electron microscopy revealed enveloped visions ranging from 170 to 220nm in diameter with hexagonal nucleocapsids (115–117nm edge-to-edge diameter). The disease has been designated as herpesviral haematopoietic necrosis (HVHN), and to date, is the only herpesvirus infection to be described in goldfish.     

High genetic introgression in alpine brown trout (Salmo trutta L.) populations from Hardangervidda, Norway

Abstract –  We studied the effect of stocking brown trout in three alpine lakes (Skavatn, Midtre Grøndalsvatn and Nordmannslågen) of the Hardangervidda mountain plateau by comparing microsatellite data from historical (1933 and 1967) and contemporary (2003) population samples. Historical and contemporary samples from a control lake (Krokavatn) and a contemporary sample from Gjuvsjå (suspected donor lake) were included as well. A total of 331 brown trout were genotyped with 11 microsatellites. Very low level of genetic diversity is observed in the historical samples from Nordmannslågen and Midtre Grøndalsvatn but not in the contemporary samples. In Skavatn historical and contemporary samples show similar genetic diversity as in the other contemporary samples. Admixture analyses with the structure program indicate high levels of introgression by nonnative brown trout in all three lakes. The stocking source for two lakes (i.e. from Gjuvsjå) is partially verifiable via our analyses. The high introgression in these lakes is discussed and the management issues are briefly addressed.     

The Spawning of Perch (Perca fluviatilis L.) in Loch Leven, Kinross, Scotland

Investigations were carried out in 1979 and 1980 into the location of spawning grounds of perch in Loch Leven, the comparative intensity of their use and the duration of the spawning period. Spawning was found to take place in depths of 1–5 m and there was an indication that depths around 3 m are preferred. Silt and mud apparently inhibit spawning on exposed shores down to 2.5 m although natural shelter probably ameliorates this. Macrophytic vegetation is rarely present at the preferred depths, therefore, artefacts and artificial substrates must be most frequently used. Spawning started about 25 April in a ‘mild’ spring and about 9 May in a ‘cold’ spring. The duration of the spawning period was 4–5 weeks. A double peak in spawning intensity was found in 1979 and, if valid, could indicate a division of spawning fish into two groups, possibly by age as the peaks were not associated with the location of spawning sites. Although spawning tended to be more intense on the southern shore and around one of the islands almost any part of the loch down to 5 m may be used.     

Haemogregavina sachai n.sp. from cultured turbot Scophthabnus maximus (L.) in Scotland

Abstract. A new species of pathogenic haemogregarine is described from farmed turbot ( Scophthalmus maximus L.) as Hamogregarina sachai and its life cycle is demonstrated in its final host. An intralexicocytic schizogony followed by an intraerythrocytic schizogony was observed. This appears to be only the second time that a complete life cycle in the vertebrate host has been described for a marine fish haemogregarine.     

Gametogenesis and spawning in the carpet-shell clam, Ruditapes decussatus (L.) (Mollusca: Bivalvia), from the Atlantic coast of Morocco

Abstract. Aspects of gametogenesis of the carpet-shell clam, Ruditapes decussatus (L.), in two lagoons on the Atlantic coast of north Morocco were studied during December 1986 to February 1988. The clams sampled did not show any sign of hermaphroditism and the percentage of males was 42%. The gonads started developing in mid-winter and were ripe in spring. Successive spawnings and reconstitution of gametes look place simultaneously starting from May up to the end of September. Two major spawning periods were noticed: a partial one in May-June and a complete spawning in August-September. From October to December the gonads were at resting stages. In coastal ecosystems where freshwater input is a very important factor, gametogenesis may be affected if clams are exposed to low salinities (less than 15%) for prolonged periods.     

A life table for powan,Coregonus lavaretus (L.) in Loch Lomond,Scotland: A basis for conservation strategy

1. A static life table for Loch Lomond powan, Coregonus lavaretus (L.) has been constructed from data obtained during 1980–1988, as a basis for monitoring any changes in the population which may ensue from exploitation of the Loch. 2. Mortality was 99.95% during the first year of life, and adult mortality highest at 5–6 years. 3. Average fecundity was 20.7 ova mm^?1 fork length. 4. Mortality and fecundity have not changed in 25 years. 5. It is not yet possible to assess the effect of the recent introduction of ruffe, Gymnocephalus cernuus (L.) into Loch Lomond, but their effect on recruitment into the vulnerable 0–1 year-class may be critical.     

A large tumour from the gray snapper, Lutjanus griseus (L.)

Abstract. Using a panel of special stains employed in human histopathology and immunohistology, the authors diagnosed a tumour from the common gray snapper, Lutjanus griseus (L.), as a myoma, Only a few such tumours have been previously reported from fishes. Gray snapper are readily available and may provide a model for basic studies on this, as well as other, types of tumour.     

The seasonal pattern of growth of the sea trout (Salmo trutta L.) from the Vardnes river in northern Norway

The growth pattern of sea trout in the sea was studied by measurement of 2787 tagged individuals before and after their stay in the sea while corresponding measurements of 2180 individual fish ascertained the growth pattern in fresh water. In the sea, there was a period of particularly rapid growth just before the beginning of July. The greatest rate of growth in fresh water was recorded for those sea trout that ascended the river relatively early on, or left the river late the following year. This result may explain the relatively simultaneous timing in northern areas of the migration to the sea of several species of salmonids in spring, and also the high degree of variation seen in the timing of the return migration to fresh water.     

Assessing the diet of North American Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) off the West Greenland coast using gut content and stable isotope analyses

Investigations on the marine feeding of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) in the Northwest Atlantic are limited compared with the Northeast Atlantic. Climate‐induced changes to food webs in Atlantic salmon feeding areas have been noted, alongside increased mortality despite a cessation of most marine fisheries. As forage efficiency may be hampering survival, it was important to address this knowledge gap. Atlantic salmon were sampled at three sites on the West Greenland coast (Sisimiut, Nuuk and Qaqortoq) between 2009 and 2011. Gut content and stable isotope analyses were combined to assess spatial and temporal differences in feeding. Capelin (Mallotus villosus) dominated the diet at Nuuk and Qaqortoq, whereas boreoatlantic armhook squid (Gonatus fabricii) was the dominant prey at Sisimiut. Hyperiid amphipods (Themisto spp.) and sand lance (Ammodytes spp.) were also important. Significant differences were found among sites for both gut contents and stable isotope analyses, with fewer differences evident temporally. Dietary differences were also evident across larger scales, with little overlap demonstrated with Northeast Atlantic diets and the emergence of boreoatlantic armhook squid as an important prey item over time. Atlantic salmon diets are frequently anchored on one or two prey items, on which they appear to specialize, but they will diversify to consume other available pelagic prey. Thus, Atlantic salmon are an opportunistic, generalist predator within the pelagic food web. The variability evident in diet suggests that the limited data available are insufficient to appropriately understand potential vulnerabilities that the species may have to ecosystem changes, and suggest further research is needed.     

Visceral necrosis of goldfish, Carassius auratus (L.): a new bacterial disease

Abstract. Recent shipments of goldfish into Canada have suffered major mortality within a short time of arrival. The pathology and bacteriology of several of these diseased fish are described. Lesions were either acute and necrotizing with haemorrhage, or they were granulomatous. In either case, the spleen was a prime target, although in severely affected animals other organs were similarly involved; these included anterior and posterior kidney (plus endocrine elements), liver, intestine, mesentery and brain. Associated with these lesions were intracellular bacteria, which were often arranged in a Chinese letters-like configuration, and which are presumed to be the cause of the disease. The Gram-negative bacterium was isolated from all fish, but its characteristics were such that it was not easily classified and its taxonomy therefore remains uncertain.     

Reared Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., in the catches of a salmon fishery on the western coast of Scotland

Abstract. Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., of reared origin were distinguished from putative wild fish In the catch of a single salmon fishery in western Scotland. Fish in seven day-catches made in 1990 totalling 403 individuals were assessed formally for the presence of residual fin damage resulting from culture. Fifty-eight (22%) were classed as being of reared origin, on the basis of previously established criteria. Additional examination of 54 of these fish showed the pigment canthaxanthin to be detectable in the tissues of 35 (65%), which were therefore classed as having escaped from sea cages. Among the fish in which canthaxanthin could not be detected, a further 17 individuals (31% of the total) were classed as having escaped from sea cages on the basis of scale growth patterns. Scale growth patterns in the remaining two fish (4% of the total) were consistent with their having grown in a hatchery before escape or release.     

The fishery for Nephrops norvegicus (Linnaeus, 1758) in the central Adriatic Sea (Italy): Preliminary observations comparing bottom trawl and baited creels

The Norway lobster, Nephrops norvegicus, is mainly targeted by bottom trawlers whose selectivity (mesh size = 40 mm stretch) with respect to this species is poor producing large quantities of discards both in terms of demersal fish species and undersized Nephrops. The Pomo pit (central Adriatic Sea) is a very important nursery area for European hake, Merluccius merluccius, but is also the main trawling ground for the Adriatic fleet exploiting Nephrops. The use of baited creels may constitute an alternative to bottom trawling. This paper summarises experimental data collected from the western Pomo pit in order to compare bottom trawl and baited creel catches with the aim of evaluating the ecological consequences of creeling. Because of high scavenger activity in the area, the effect of this on the creel fishery was also investigated.A large fraction of the trawl catch was composed of juvenile undersized individuals of commercial species, the same was not true for creels. Composition of Nephrops catches differed markedly between creels and the bottom trawl. Scavenger activity was very high. The results indicate that ecologically the use of baited creels appears to be a valid alternative to bottom trawling but, unfortunately, may not comprise an economically viable solution in the investigated area, which is 30 nautical miles offshore.     

Ontogeny and dietary specialization in brown trout (Salmo trutta L.) from Loch Ness, Scotland, examined using stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen

Abstract – The trophic ecology of many fish species in cold temperate lakes is often characterized by a generalist or opportunist strategy. In this study, the diets of polytrophic brown trout in Loch Ness, Scotland, have been examined using stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen to complement gut content analyses and aging by otolith annuli counts. Using the stable isotope ratios, it was possible to trace trout ontogeny from parr development in a natal river to piscivory in the pelagic. Potential dilution of maternal isotope signatures from eggs to parr was also demonstrated. Despite the low productivity of the loch, intraspecific variability in isotope ratios suggested dietary specialization, rather than opportunism, in some individuals.