Using data storage tags to study fish physiology and behaviour

Zrini, Zoe A. (2020) Using data storage tags to study fish physiology and behaviour. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Data storage tags (DSTs) are implantable devices that record and store physiological, environmental and/or behavioural data from free-living animals. A recently developed DST from Star-Oddi records heart rate (fH), electrocardiograms (ECGs), tri-axial acceleration and temperature. In my first chapter, I found that parameters of acceleration could predict the swimming speed, tail beat frequency and behaviour of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), and that the DST could record changes in fH associated with recovery from surgery, the diurnal (day / night) cycle and temperature. In my second chapter, I used Star-Oddi’s micro fH logger to show that the lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) has a low maximum fH compared to most fishes, experiences tachycardia when acutely exposed to increased hydrostatic pressure and for periods as long as one hour, and that hydrostatic pressure alters their fH response to decreasing oxygen levels (hypoxia). These data support the use of biologging tags (which have recently been miniaturized and made more affordable) to better understand how aquatic animals respond to changes in their environment, and their ecology.

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