Abstract
The objective of this study was to provide information on changes in the metabolism and swimming ability of juvenile sterlet sturgeon, Acipenser ruthenus, caused by acutely low or high temperatures. Changes in critical swimming speed (Ucrit), oxygen consumption rate (MO2), tail beat frequency (TBF) and tail beat amplitude (TBA) were observed with a Steffensen-type swimming respirometer, an oxygen electrode and a camera at different swimming speeds at three temperatures: 5°C, 15°C, and 25°C. Fish tested at 5°C and 25°C were maintained at 15°C (near optimal) for one week to simulate conditions below a dam. The Ucrit value decreased significantly during acute temperature changes at 5°C and 25°C; Ucrit was highest near the optimal temperature. Oxygen consumption rate (MO2) increased with the swimming speed at 15°C; however, at 25°C and 5°C, the MO2 decreased with the swimming speed. Both TBA and TBF decreased at 5°C and 25°C compared to values at 15°C. The slopes of the regression lines (TBF/U) at 5°C and 25°C seemed lower compared to 15°C.
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