Effects of pectoral fin ray removal on white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) and Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) swimming performance

Abstract

The effects of two pectoral fin ray sampling methods on swimming performance were evaluated for hatchery-reared white sturgeon and Siberian sturgeon. Fish were subjected to either a notch removal or a full removal of the pectoral fin ray whereas control fish were subjected to a sham operation. Mean relative growth in fork length (F = 1.30; df = 2, 27; P = 0.29) and weight (F = 0.38; df = 2, 27; P = 0.69) were not significantly different among treatments white sturgeon. Mean 10-min critical-station holding speeds (CSHS) was not significantly different among treatments for white (F = 1.58; df = 2, 44; P = 0.22) or Siberian sturgeon (F = 0.55; df = 2, 42; P = 0.58). Analysis of variance indicates that there were no treatment effects on the CSHS and survival and growth of white sturgeon. Survival and growth was not evaluated for Siberian sturgeon.