Marine Catfish Research Articles

Food and feeding habits of marine catfish, Osteogeneiosus militaris (Linn., 1758) off Mumbai waters

The food and feeding habits of the marine cat fish, Osteogeneiosus militaris (Linn.,1758) off Mumbai waters was studied. The species was found to be carnivorous and predacious in feeding habit. Index of preponderance values indicated that, it feeds mainly on crustaceans (shrimps, crabs), molluscs (bivalves, squids) and small fishes ( Coilia spp ., ribbon fish). Among the food groups, crustaceans dominate throughout the year in comparison to molluscs and fishes. In the crustacean group, Acetes spp. was found to be the dominant food item contributing to 43.34 per cent followed by penaeid shrimps, which shared 27.65 per cent of the total food in all the months. Analysis of month-wise percentage food composition revealed that, the species fed the highest percentage of Acetes spp . during the month of November (34.92%) while penaeid shrimps was consumed in the largest percentage in January (35.10%). With respect to the size (length) of the fish, the percentage of Acetes spp. as a food item was highest (52.99%) for the length group of 391-420 mm and lowest (25.64%) for 361-390 mm. The guts were found to be empty for fishes having length of more than 420 mm. Results of the feeding intensity delineated that, the species is not a voracious feeder as none of the individuals studied was found to have gorged or full stomach over the entire period of investigation. Among the different length groups, the highest feeding fishes were in the length group of 211-240 mm. Gastro-somatic index was highest during August for males and during November for females while the pooled value was highest in January (3.206).

Morphometry, length-weight relationship and relative condition factor of marine catfish,Osteogeneiosusmilitaris (Linn., 1758) of Mumbai waters

The meristic and morphometric characters as well as the length-weight relationship and condition factor of the marine cat fish, Osteogeneiosus militaris (Linn.,1758) off Mumbai waters was investigated. Based on the meristic characters, the fin formula can be written as; D I,7 , P I,10-11 , V 6 , A 18-22 , C 17-19 . The morphometric characters of indicated high degree of correlation among the compared characters. The length-weight relationship of the species is given as, W = 0.000006 L 3.05 for females, W = 0.000008 L 3.01 for males and W = 0.000007 L 3.03 for pooled sexes which implies that the species found off Mumbai waters has isometric growth. The co-efficient of co-rrelation between length and weight was found to be very high (r = 0.981, 0.962 and 0.977) for females, males and sexes pooled, respectively. The condition factor was found to be higher for females than those of the males. This indicates that females are in better condition compared to males. The seasonal variation observed in the condition factor for both the sexes could be related to reproductive cycle and feeding.

Bio Prospecting the Enzymatic and Anticancer Potential of Spine Secretions of Marine Catfish (Plotosus lineatus)

Plotosus lineatus is the most common venomous catfish in the South east coast of India, which is a customary threat to fisherman. Earlier, numerous researches have been focused on skin mucus due to the lytic activity, whereas the spine venom which acts as a defensive mechanism to potential predators and primary cause of severe envenomation in humans has not been fully elucidated. Thus, our present study was conducted to investigate the enzymatic potential of catfish P. lineatus spine venom (Sp-Vn). The findings of the research implied that spine venom have spectrum of enzyme activities that are responsible for the enhancement of envenomation. We speculate that these toxins are well organized and possess a wide array of activity and for the first time reported the biochemical effects of spine venom added to their potential cytotoxicity activity against HEp2 cells

A Comprehensive Review on Fishery Biology of Catfishes

Cat fish exploit a large diversity of both plant and animal protein, and adapt harsh environmental conditions as they have the ability to take atmospheric oxygen. Marine catfish tolerate a broad range of salinities between Open Ocean and fresh water. The entire catfishes have soft as well as scaleless body, are greatly appreciated by consumers and maintain healthy in both fresh and dried condition. In this review article various aspects of cat fish has been discussed.

Use of lapillus otolith microchemistry as an indicator of the habitat of Genidens barbus from different estuarine environments in the southwestern Atlantic Ocean

The marine catfish Genidens barbus is an anadromous species from South America. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the use of lapillus otolith microchemistry (Sr:Ca; Ba:Ca and Mg:Ca ratios) as an indicator of changes in habitat use and identify the potential breeding areas and fish stocks of G. barbus populations from the Plata Basin (Parana River Delta and De la Plata River estuary-Argentina) and Lagoa dos Patos coastal lagoon (southern Brazil). Sr:Ca, Ba:Ca and Mg:Ca ratios were measured in the core area (inner 4 rings) and external area (outer 3–4 rings) of the otoliths by ICP-OES. The Sr:Ca ratio tended to be higher in the otolith external area than in the core area, while the Ba:Ca ratio followed the opposite pattern. This suggests the displacement of fish toward higher salinity areas. The Sr:Ca, Ba:Ca, Mg:Ca ratios in the core and external areas of the otoliths from the Plata Basin differed significantly from those of the otoliths from Lagoa dos Patos. This may indicate the occurrence of two different breeding sites and at least two fish stocks in the study region.

BENZO (α) PYRENE POTENTIAL ANALYSIS ON SMOKED FISH (CASE STUDY: TRADITIONAL METHOD AND SMOKING KILN)

Benzo(α)pyrene were determined by Gass Chromatography Mass Spectrofotometry method on nile, tilapia, milkfish, little tuna, narrow bared spanish mackerel, marine catfish, canine catfish and stingray processed by traditional method and the used of smoking kiln. Eight samples of smoked fish processed by traditional method showed a higher BaP levels ranging from 0.03 to 4.58 ppb. Whereas, BaP levels on smoked fish processed by smoking kiln were found in average lower than traditional method ranging from 0.01 to 3.04 ppb. Different fish species gave very significant different (P<0.01) to BaP levels. Meanwhile, different method of smoking fish gave no significant different (P>0.05) on carbonyl compounds (phenol, formaldehyde, and organic acid) levels on smoked fish processed by traditional method and smoking kiln, but different fish species gave very significant different (P<0.01) to carbonyl compound level (phenol, formaldehyde, and organic acid). Keywords: Benzo(α)pyrene, carbonyl, smoking kiln, smoked fish, traditional method

Reproductive biology of two marine catfishes (Siluriformes, Ariidae) in the Sepetiba Bay, Brazil

Marine catfish are abundant in the Sepetiba Bay, a 305 km2 area in Southeast Brazilian coast (Lat. 22 degrees 54' - 23 degrees 04' S: Long. 43 degrees 44' - 44 degrees 10' W), but the knowledge on their biology is still scanty. The reproductive biology of Sciadeichthys luniscutis (Valenciennes 1840) and Genidens genidens (Valenciennes 1839) was studied through monthly sampling, from October 1998 to September 1999. Fishes were caught with a standardized otter trawl, in the interior of Sepetiba Bay, and near to the confluence with a major freshwater contributor. Six gonadal stages were described, based on macroscopic observations of gonad form, size, weight, color and oocyte diameter, and microscopic observations of differences in size and staining in the nucleus and cytoplasm structures, as viewed through a light microscope. Changes in the gonadosomatic index (GSI) and in stages of gonadal development showed what S. luniscutis spawned in Spring, while G. genidens spawned in Summer. Total spawning was shown for both species as indicated by high concentration of post-ovulatory follicles in spent stages. Fecundity was low (14-38 vitellogenic oocytes for S. luniscutis and 6-24 for G. genidens). when compared with other teleosts. Low fecundity and separation in spawning period suggest that both species are k-strategist, able to avoid interspecific competition in early stages of life cycle to optimize the use of the available niche.

Marine teleost locates live prey through pH sensing.

We report that the Japanese sea catfish Plotosus japonicus senses local pH-associated increases in H(+)/CO2 equating to a decrease of ≤0.1 pH unit in ambient seawater. We demonstrated that these sensors, located on the external body of the fish, detect undamaged cryptic respiring prey, such as polychaete worms. Sensitivity is maximal at the natural pH of seawater (pH 8.1 to 8.2) and decreases dramatically in seawater with a pH <8.0.

Hold your breath or the catfish will find you

Sensory Biology Finding prey is hard enough in the light of day, but animals that are nocturnal or live in murky conditions face even greater challenges. Caprio et al. describe a sense that allows a marine catfish to detect the mere “breathing” of their prey target. External sensors on the

Bioaccumulation of butyltins and liver damage in the demersal fish Cathorops spixii (Siluriformes, Ariidae)

The toxicity of butyltin compounds (BTs), mainly tributyltin (TBT), has been reported in different organisms. However, such an analysis in fish after field exposure with reference to the related biomarkers has not been commonly observed in the literature. This study presents the uptake of BTs in the liver of a neotropical marine catfish Cathorops spixii in Paranagua Bay, an important estuarine system located in southern Brazil. Two different areas, close to and distant from the harbor, were used for chemical analysis evaluation of hepatotoxicity through genetic, enzymatic, and histopathological biomarkers. The presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in bile was also considered as a biomarker. The results showed a significant relationship between TBT levels and the inhibition of biotransformation enzymes and high occurrence of melanomacrophages in fish collected close to the harbor site. These effects were linked to the absence of TBT metabolites in the liver. In the second site, the presence of DBT was associated with an increase in EROD and GST activity. The larger amount of DNA damage as well as the highest oxidative stress was noted in fish from the less TBT-polluted area, where DBT and bile PAHs occurred. These findings showed different impact levels due to or increased by the chronic exposure of biota to BTs.

Presencia del bagre marino Genidens planifrons (Teleostei, Siluriformes, Ariidae) en las costas de la República Argentina

Presence of the marine catfish Genidens planifrons (Teleostei, Siluriformes, Ariidae) in Argentinean shores. The marine catfishes of the genus Genidens are endemic of the south Atlantic coasts of South America. The clade is composed by four extant species, distributed from the southern coast of Brazil to northern Patagonia, though some species can occasionally be registered in southern Patagonia. The presence of the species Genidens planifrons in Argentinean shores is confirmed on the basis of new records. The taxonomical identification of this species is sustained by a series of reliable morphological and osteological characters. The presence of this species in Argentinean territory considerably extends its southern distribution.

Levels of Organochlorines Contaminants on Fish Species from Coastal Area in the Southeastern Brazil

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), Dibenzo-p-Dioxins (PCDDs), Dibenzofurans (PCDFs) are highly lipophilic persistent organochlorines contaminants competent to resist degradation and with the ability to bioaccumulate through the food chain. Concentrations were determined in four species of edible fish from Sepetiba Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: marine catfish ( Genidens genidens ), false herring ( Harengula clupeola ), chere-chere grunt ( Haemulum steidachneri ), and barracuda ( Sphyraena sphyraena ) which were collected in July-August 2012. PCBs and PCDD/Fs and were determined by high-resolution mass spectrometer (HRGC/HRMS) according to the US EPA 1613B, 8290A, and US EPA 1668B methods. The focal objective of the assessment was to obtain information about existing levels of pollutants, having as a consequence the possibility of providing preventive actions for public health, as well as encourage the development of mitigation measures. The concentration of total PCDDs/PCDFs ranged from 0.10105~0.2141 pg-WHO-TEQ/g ww and PCBs ranged from 0.08834~0.62304 pg-WHO-TEQ/g ww. Judging from the European Union regulation limit levels of PCDD/PCDFs and PCDD/PCDFs/PCBs were lower than the criteria in all samples, however it is important to systematize environmental monitoring.

Effect of Liver Biotoxins of Certain Marine Fishes on Mouse Cell Culture

Biotoxins from certain marine fishes are not only harmful to marine animals and their native environment, but also have pharmacological importance, and can be used as medicines. An investigation was carried out to study the effects of liver biotoxins of marine fish (Chelonodon patoca), catfish (Osteogeneiosus militaries), and mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta) on mouse, and their established kidney and liver cell lines. Among the three toxins, puffer liver toxin was the most toxic in mouse, with 5 mouse units/ml, followed by 2.5 mouse units/ml and 0.67 mouse units/ml of catfish and mackerel, respectively. The morphological rigidity, viability, swelling and syncitia formation, followed by cell death, are the common features recorded in both cell lines. The Tissue Culture Infective Dose (TCID50) was the highest for puffer liver toxin in both cell lines, followed by catfish and mackerel liver toxin.

The Development Opportunity of Catch Fishery in The Province of Southern Sumatera

South Sumatera province since 2000, began managing the fishery resources separately with the Province of Bangka Belitung. Bangka Belitung contribution in the fisheries sector of the South Sumatera province in 1999 by 72 %. Based on these conditions, then do research on fisheries development opportunities in the surrounding waters of South Sumatera. This research was conducted in February 2006 until July 2006 in two Regency namely Komiring Ogan Ilir and Banyuasin Regency. The results showed that the leading commodities in the province of South Sumatera is shrimp, crab, marine catfish (Arius thalassinus), and wolf herring (Chirosentrus dorab). This leading commodities still have a great opportunity to be developed for their utilization rates still ranged between 58,42% – 66,77% Fishing gear priority based on the analysis of MCA (multy Critical Analysis) with considering the biological aspects, technical, social and economic is trammelnet, drift gillnet and Stationary-bamboo lift net. Key Words: Development, Capture Fisheries , South Sumatera province

Melanomacrophage centers aggregation in P. lineatus spleen as bio–indicator of environmental change

ObjectiveTo monitor the water quality parameters and climatic impact on the health condition of the fish through pathology study of Marine catfish spleen using Melano-macrophage centers (MMCs) aggregation as a biomarker Marine catfishes along the parangipettai coast of Tamil Nadu. MethodsReplicate samples were done for all the seasons along the coast. Condition factor (K) and Histopathology technique, were used to evaluate the condition. ResultsThe result revealed the Condition factor (K) of fish was minimum in winter 1.0874 and maximum in summer 1.6726. Histology show the number of MMCs aggregation in spleen 59.5 ±8.3 MMCs/mm2 was observed in at post monsoon and 2-5 MMCs/mm2 in summer. Anova shows significantly different at P<0.05. The MMCs aggregation excited 30/mm2 when the water temperature is below 22°C and reaches maximum at temperatures of below 20 °C. The MMCs were correlated with water temperature shows positive correlation mean drop in water temperature may also reason for MMCs aggregation in spleen. ConclusionThe rise in temperature causes effect in health of the fish which was indicated in condition factor and MMCs aggregation. Animals are vulnerable to disease due to lowering of temperature and other environmental conditions. The MMCs aggregation can be used as bio–indicators for environmental.

Early development and allometric shifts during the ontogeny of a marine catfish (Cathorops spixii-Ariidae)

Summary This study assessed whether the developmental series of the ariid Cathorops spixii (Agassiz, 1829) is related to growth patterns during its early ontogeny. The main morphological events of C. spixii were studied from the newly neurula embryo (6.99±0.69 mm TL) to juveniles (53.38±14.43 mm TL) in order to characterize and corroborate patterns of ontogenetic allometries. Prior to hatching, embryos were well-developed, with an ossified axial and appendicular skeleton. Embryos grew slowly, but positive allometric growth was observed in head width (β1 = 1.65) and eye diameter (β1 = 1.59). This seems to be related to the fast development of sensory organs such as otoliths, Weberian apparatus, lenses, nostrils and barbels during the embryonic period when eggs are under the care of adult males. After hatching, mouth-brooding free-embryos grew horizontally isometric, except for the snout length that presented quick growth related to the end of endogenous feeding (β1 = 1.73). Slow growth was observed in head width (β1 = 0.44) and eye diameter (β1 = 0.26), taking into account that sensory organs are formed in free-embryos. The end of the yolk-sac period was characterized by a direct change from free-embryo to juvenile, without a true larval period. Juveniles are characterized by growth patterns nearly isometric in all body regions, suggesting that they already bear most of characteristics of adult fish. The quick growth of morphometric variables that are related to sensorial organs before hatching and the increase in horizontal growth after the first 6 weeks (hatched free-embryos) reflect developmental priorities during the earliest stages where important sensorial organs are being developed for juvenile survival strategies.

Plastic debris ingestion by marine catfish: An unexpected fisheries impact

Plastic marine debris is a pervasive type of pollution. River basins and estuaries are a source of plastics pollution for coastal waters and oceans. Estuarine fauna is therefore exposed to chronic plastic pollution. Three important catfish species [Cathorops spixii (N=60), Cathorops agassizii (N=60) and Sciades herzbergii (N=62)] from South Western Atlantic estuaries were investigated in a tropical estuary of the Brazilian Northeast in relation to their accidental ingestion of plastic marine debris. Individuals from all three species had ingested plastics. In C. spixii and C. agassizii, 18% and 33% of individuals had plastic debris in their stomachs, respectively. S. herzbergii showed 18% of individuals were contaminated. All ontogenetic phases (juveniles, sub-adults and adults) were contaminated. Nylon fragments from cables used in fishery activities (subsistence, artisanal and commercial) played a major role in this contamination. These catfish spend their entire life cycles within the estuary and are an important feeding resource for larger, economically important, species. It is not yet possible to quantify the scale and depth of the consequences of this type of pollution. However, plastics are well known threat to living resources in this and other estuaries. Conservation actions will need to from now onto take plastics pollution into consideration.

Organoleptic effect of using different plant materials on smoking of marine and freshwater catfish

Freshwater catfish ( Clarias gariepinus ) and marine catfish ( Galeichthys feliceps ) were smoked using Acacia raddiana (Moriela), Prosopis julifora (“Mathenge”), Azadirachta indica ( Neem) and Cocos nucifera (Coconut husks) in view to assess and compare the organoleptic scores- taste, appearance and overall acceptability of the smoked fish. Insect and mould attack was also monitored during storage. The scores for taste for marine catfish were better than that for freshwater catfish irrespective of the plant materials used. Taste for freshwater catfish and marine catfish smoked with Acacia was significantly different (p Key words: Organoleptic, Smoking, Catfish, Storage, Infestation Abbreviations: KMFRI: Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute

Study of Glomerular Vasculature in Teleosts with the Resin-Replica Method

Glomerular vasculature was investigated in the carpCyprinus carpio, the scorpionfishSebastiscus marmoratus, and the marine catfishPlotosus lineatus with the resin-replica method. An afferent arteriole was connected with a glomerulus in every fish. It was slender in the carp, whereas the scorpionfish and marine catfish possessed thick afferent arterioles. The glomerular capillaries were sinusoidal. The divergences, convergences, and windings of these capillaries were not well developed in any of the fish. The glomerular capillaries converged into an efferent arteriole in the carp and scorpionfish. In the marine catfish, on the other hand, most of the glomeruli had two efferent arterioles.

Karyology of the Marine Catfish Bagre marinus (Ariidae) with an Analysis of Chromosome Numbers among Siluriform Fishes

Bagre marinus has a diploid complement of 54 chromosomes composed of 12 metacentrics, 8 submetacentrics, and the remainder with terminal or near-terminal centromeres. Karyotypes for three species of ariid catfishes (Arius dussumieri, A. felis, andBagre marinus) indicate the same diploid number, but each species has a different arm number. Data for 132 species in 14 families of catfishes show a predominance of 56±2 chromosomes in the diploid set. This range in diploid number is most common in the Ariidae, Bagridae, Ictaluridae, and Pimelodidae, which, together with the Doradidae (no karyotypes available), have been suggested, from osteology, as forming a group close to ancestral stock from which living catfishes evolved.