Sampling fish ABW

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• Sampling fish ABW
• Procedure-in-brief: Average body weight sampling of fish (>20 g) is measured to monitor fish growth.
• Author: Joseph Uichanco
• Date authored: 6-DEC-2019
• Date edited: 6-DEC-2019
• PPE: non-slip footwear
• Requirements: weighing balance, hand nets, buckets, smartphone with camera

Refer to the General SOP Document

Methodology:

1. Tare the weighing balance with a bucket with a small amount of water. Use the appropriate balance for the expected weight.
2. Gently catch fish randomly. If it is not practical to sample the entire tank population, a representative sub-sample may be used. Work in manageable batches or individually if the fish are big. Sedating the fish might be necessary. See the relevant SOP on anesthetizing fish.
3. Allow the water to drip off the net for a moment.
4. Transfer the fish to the basin. Count them as you do this.
5. Record the weight.
6. Put the fish back into their tank immediately.
7. Calculate the average body weight (ABW = weight/number of fish)

Remarks:

• ABW sampling must be done before feeding the fish that day.
• When transferring fish to the basin, avoid transferring too much water.
• Minimize stress to the fish by being gentle and quick to get them back into their tank.

Risk Management:

• Safe Work Procedure
• Risk Assessment (RiskWare#10473)

Forms to accomplish:

• Accomplish Form H.2 (Livestock Inventory Record)