Abstract

Abstract. We describe a rapid, non-destructive method for determining lean body mass (LBM; i.e. total body mass — total lipid mass) and lipid content in live fish. This method provides non-invasive determination of body composition by measuring the total body electrical conductivity (TOBEC) of an animal placed within a low-frequency electromagnetic field. This principle is governed by the different electrical properties of body fat and fat-free tissues. Relationships between TOBEC analysis and body composition were examined using juvenile sunshine bass (hybrid striped bass, Morone chrysops (Rafinesque) ♀×M. saxatilis (Walbaum) ♂) in a size range of 24–124g. Whole-body conductivity was significantly correlated to LBM, lipid, protein, water, and ash content. Analyses of an independent group of fish indicated TOBEC to be a reliable indicator of body composition. This method should prove useful for deriving body composition data at various phases of an experiment or a life cycle, rather than a single point in time as with destructive methods.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.