The tolerance threshold of Chinese sucker to total dissolved gas supersaturation

Abstract

Total dissolved gas (TDG) supersaturation generated in the river may result in gas bubble disease to Chinese sucker (Myxocyprinus asiaticus Bleeker) and cause their mortality. To assess the effects of TDG supersaturation on Chinese suckers in laboratory, juvenile fish were exposed to different levels of TDG supersaturated water. All of the fish died when the TDG saturation reached and exceeded 125%, but none died at TDG of 120% saturation in 96 h. To evaluate the effects of intermittent exposure of TDG supersaturation, Chinese suckers were exposed to TDG of 130% for a specific duration and then provided a recovery period at 100% saturation. The results showed that some remission is possible for intermittent exposure. Because of the characteristics of natural rivers, experiments exploring the TDG supersaturation detection and avoidance abilities of Chinese suckers were conducted and demonstrated the fish can avoid TDG supersaturation in both the horizontal and vertical directions when higher TDG levels were available. The results indicate the tolerance threshold of juvenile Chinese suckers is a TDG level of 120% saturation.