Evaluation and application of presumptive tests for blood for fish epithelial injury detection.

摘要

Any time a fish interacts with any structure, anthropogenic or natural, or other animal; there is an opportunity for injury. This thesis compared several presumptive tests for blood commonly used in crime scene analysis (fluorescein, Bluestar(c), phenolphthalein, HemastixRTM) and their ability to detect and quantify fish epithelial injury. Through a qualitative literature review and comparative field study, fluorescein was found to be the best (i.e., low rate of false positives, detected highest proportion of true positives). Based on this information, fluorescein was investigated further to refine its application in fisheries research. Using fluorescein, injuries could be detected up to 5 hours after the injury occurs and once fluorescein is applied, there is significantly less detectable fluorescein after one hour. Potential sources of injury from recreational angling gear and handling methods were then investigated on northern pike (Esox lucius) and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) using fluorescein. It was determined that carpeted surfaces and knotted nylon landing nets caused the greatest injury for northern pike and overall injury from fishing tournaments was associated with the greatest injury detected for largemouth bass. Overall, fluorescein can be used to assess the injury from a variety of sources and can be used to educate anglers on proper handling methods and the least harmful gear choices.