Behavioral response of carp (Cyprinus carpio) to ammonia stress

Abstract The behavioral responses of schools of young Koi fish ( Cyprinus carpio ) to sub-lethal ammonia concentrations were monitored using CCD cameras and computer image processing. Several geometrical parameters of the schools such as the position of the center of gravity, and the distribution of the fish were calculated continuously and plotted versus time. Swimming speed and activity were measured indirectly through a novel parameter—the Projected Mobility Picture (PMP). The immediate response of the treated fish was to dive to the bottom of the tank and stay there for a time period which increased with the ammonia concentration. Later, the fish rose to depths which increased with ammonia concentration. At high ammonia concentration, the fish approached the surface. Decreased activity of the treated fish was accompanied by a smaller mean distribution. Blood glucose levels of the treated fish increased, and they became indifferent to food. In general, this remote method of continuous monitoring of alterations in fish behavior under stress has the potential to be developed into a method for detecting early signs of stress in populations of fish.

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