Search

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Mangroves have high potential for advancing ecotourism because of their position at the intersection of land and sea. Many studies have reported that mangroves and coastal environments are the right places for the development of sustainable ecotourism. The aim of this study is to assess the tourism prospects of significant mangrove ecosystems in Sumatra, Indonesia, and to identify suitable approaches for fostering ecotourism. METHODS: The research was conducted in Beras Basah Village, located in the Pangkalan Susu District of Langkat Regency, North Sumatra, Indonesia. It commenced in November 2023 with the initiation of the Beras Basah ecotourism project and concluded in January 2024. The research commenced by introducing the ecotourism landscape through the utilization of a geographic information system. Subsequently, questionnaires and discussion group forums were employed to analyze the community, visitors, and relevant stakeholders. Furthermore, an assessment of the potential mangrove ecosystem was conducted, encompassing transects, ecological suitability, and carrying capacity. Lastly, a comprehensive analysis of the research findings was performed, focusing on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with the study. FINDINGS: The potential area for ecotourism covers 38 hectares with various well-designed facilities and infrastructures. The mangroves were utilized as a source of sustenance with the overall condition of community. This study obtained 8 species of mangroves consisting of Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata, Rhizophora stylosa, Sonneratia alba, Avicennia marina, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Xylocarpus granatum, and Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea. The species of fauna observed were two species of birds (Haliaetus leucogaster, Bubulcus ibis), three species of reptiles (Varanus salvator, Fordonia leucobalia, Mabouia multifasciata), three types of mammals (Macaca fascicularis, Tupaia glis, Martes flavigula), seven types of fish (Plotosus canius, Epinephelus lanceolatus, Ophiocara porocephala, Lutjanus argentimaculatus, Lates calcarifer, Scatophagus argus, Mugil cephalus), five types of mollusks (Cerithidea cingulata, Telescopium telescopium, Cerithidea quadrata, Murex trapa, Polymesoda bengalensis), and four types of crustaceans (Scylla serrata, Metapograpsus sp., Panaeus monodon, Panaeus merguensis). The two studied stations exhibited varying levels of ecological suitability. One approach to protection is the enforcement of a visitor quota based on the carrying capacity of the areas, was 86 individuals per day. Furthermore, the analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats revealed that the improvement of mangrove ecosystem management, the addition of supporting facilities, and the provision of environmental and conservation education to tourists can contribute to the enhancement of ecotourism. CONCLUSION: Ecotourism plays a crucial role in preserving the sustainability of the mangrove ecosystem while also influencing socio-economic factors. Through study and analysis of both human behavior and natural processes, effective management strategies can be developed to support ecotourism initiatives. The findings of this study highlight the significance of ecotourism and emphasize the importance of expanding ecotourism initiatives, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting environmental awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The coasts around West Java, Indonesia are prospective fishing grounds due to their commercial fish diversity. The presence of neighboring settlements discharging waste, including microplastics, poses a threat to the estuarine ecosystem. This study aimed to quantify and classify microplastics in the tissues of Mugil cephalus, Eleutheronema tetradactylum, and Scatophagus argus. METHODS: This study takes place in the estuary of the Blanakan River, Subang Regency, an area renowned for its wide variety of commercially valuable fish. Four fish sampling sites were identified according to the predominant land use, with settlements in the upper reaches, ponds in the central area, and mangrove forests in the lower reaches. Fish samples were taken the gastrointestinal tract, gills and muscle to calculated the microplastic content and identify its shape and size. Raman spectroscopy was applied to verify the polymer of microplastic. Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate variations in microplastic levels at the individual level across these fish species. FINDINGS: The findings indicated the presence of microplastics in the muscle, gastrointestinal tract, and gills of three commercially caught fish from Blanakan, with the muscle being identified as the edible part and the gastrointestinal tract and gills as the non-edible parts. The microplastics were classified according to shape and size and were found in the following order of abundance: Mugil cephalus, Scatophagus argus, Eleutheronema tetradactylum. Mugil cephalus contained the most microplastics (210.8 particles per individual), with the lowest amount recorded in Eleutheronema tetradactylum (41.9 particles per individual). The tissues of Eleutheronema tetradactylum exhibited varying levels of microplastic contamination, with the highest concentration found in the gastrointestinal tract, followed by the gills and muscles. In contrast, in the tissues of Mugil cephalus and Scatophagus argus, microplastics were found in the following order of abundance from high to low: muscle, gastrointestinal tract, gill. The muscle of Mugil cephalus contained the highest microplastic concentration (28.71 particles per gram wet weight), while the lowest was recorded in the muscle of Eleutheronema tetradactylum (3.42 particles per gram wet weight). Microplastics ranging from 300 to 1000 micrometers in size, in the form of fibers and fragments, were commonly found in fish tissues. CONCLUSION: Microplastic content is found most abundantly in the gastrointestinal tract and muscle. This indicates that feeding and ingestion play a role in the entry of microplastics into the fish's body. Given that the fish falls under the category of commercial and consumption fish, there is a significant concern regarding environmental pollution caused by microplastics and the potential health hazards linked to its consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has experienced substantial coastal reclamation and damming of rivers. These changes have the potential to impact migrations of diadromous fishes between the sea and fresh waters, but the composition of these fishes and the impacts of barriers to their movement in China have received little attention. We inventoried the species composition and distribution of diadromous fishes, and the impacts of barriers on them, in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), southern China. Fish assemblages were surveyed using hand‐nets, supplemented by cast‐netting and single‐pass snorkel surveys, in 24 small coastal streams across three regions. Surveys were undertaken on multiple occasions during the wet and dry seasons to account for the monsoonal tropical climate. Twenty‐eight diadromous fishes were collected, mostly gobies, amounting to over half (53%) of the total richness of primary freshwater fishes; four additional species are known from literature records. Diadromous richness was 48% greater during the wet season, when all species were encountered. Richness varied substantially among streams, from a maximum of 17 (2 streams that were diversity hot spots) to none (3 streams). The most widespread diadromous fish was Glossogobius giuris (71% frequency of occurrence), followed by Mugil cephalus (58% occurrence) and Eleotris oxycephala (50% occurrence). The remaining 25 diadromous fishes occurred in fewer than half of the streams; 12 species were confined to a single stream and may be locally threatened. There were conspicuous spatial differences in diadromous assemblages across HKSAR, despite its limited extent (1114 km2), the proximity of the surveyed streams, and the broad geographic distribution of most species. Regional species assemblages were influenced by localized habitat characteristics, with a noticeable distinction between areas with and without large, fast‐flowing, and highly oxygenated streams. The presence of in‐stream barriers (weirs: 0.3–8.7 m high) did not affect spatial patterns in species assemblages, although, on average, diadromous richness was lower in weir‐obstructed streams (4.0 vs. 6.9 species in unobstructed streams). In total, 18 species were confined to unobstructed streams or sections below weirs, whereas the remaining 10 species were recorded both above and below weirs. Only the mottled eel (Anguilla marmorata) and a goby (Stiphodon multisquamus) were able to ascend weirs over 2 m. Although at least 400 m of the lower course of each stream was sampled, diadromous fishes were confined to the first 300 m in 12 of the 13 weir‐obstructed streams. Remarkably, the tally of 32 diadromous species in HKSAR exceeds the 19 known from mainland China, highlighting the need for further research on composition and conservation status of diadromous fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate whether fermented rice bran can substitute soybean meal in the diet of the grey mullet. Four different substitution levels (0, 5, 10, and 15%) in the diet were investigated for soybean meal replacement with fermented rice bran (FRB). In the 0-10% replacement groups, weight, specific growth rate, feed efficiency ratio, body protein level, and protein efficiency ratio were significantly higher (P<0.05) compared to the 15% replacement group. Additionally, there was no difference (P>0.05) in the grey mullet's growth rate in the 0 and 10% replacement treatments. Furthermore, replacing up to 15% of soybean meal with fermented rice bran (FRB) did not significantly affect the overall immunity of the grey mullet. Additionally, incorporating fermented rice bran (FRB) significantly increased the gut microbiota counts (P< 0.05). The greatest increase in the gut microbiota was observed when up to 5% of soybean meal was replaced with FRB. From an economic perspective, substituting up to 5% of soybean meal with FRB reduced the cost of formulating the diet by 0.64% and decreased the cost per kilogram of weight gain by 5 to 10%, or approximately 9.9 and 1.5%, respectively. Overall, the study suggests that replacing up to 10% of rice bran with FRB can enhance growth performance, feed consumption, body composition, intestinal microbiota counts, and financial viability in the grey mullet (Mugil cephalus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermentation technology is essential for raising feed's nutritional content and improving quality. The purpose of the current feeding study was to assess the impact of switching from raw rice bran to fermented rice bran (FRB) on the growth performance, nutritional consumption, economic value, and histological alterations in the gut and liver of the grey mullet, Mugil cephalus (with an initial weight of 5.7 ± 0.01g). The control diet (c) and the other three isoproteic (27% crude protein) diets (B50, B75, and B100) were formulated with FRB replacing 50, 75, and 100% of the rice bran, respectively. Following a 60-day feeding period, the grey mullet given the B100% diet had greater final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, and protein contents in their bodies compared to the control group (P< 0.05). Additionally, the fish given the B100% diet showed improved feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, and feed efficiency ratio values. Furthermore, the insertion of FRB resulted in a substantial increase in the count of intestinal microbiota (P< 0.05). In contrast to the control group, the fermented therapies had no detrimental effects on the overall immunity. From an economic perspective, the cost of formulating the diet increased by 0.88% when rice bran was fully replaced with fermented rice bran (FRB) (B100). The results of this study suggest that substituting rice bran with FRB up to 100% may improve growth performance, feed consumption, gut health, and profitability in juvenile M. cephalus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Shanghai Ocean University is the property of Editorial Department of Journal of Shanghai Ocean University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Heterophyiasis is a highly endemic disease in the Nile Delta, Egypt, where people consume raw or undercooked Oreochromis niloticus and Mugil cephalus. Birds and rats play a crucial role in fish-borne zoonotic trematode transmission since they serve as natural and experimental hosts. This study aimed to update the epidemiological information, morphological description, molecular identification and gene expression of two distinct heterophyid metacercariae in Giza, Wadi Al-Rayan, and Lake Manzala, Egypt, whereas various heterophyid infections could be expected. The present Centrocestus formosanus, Heterophyes heterophyes, and Heterophyes nocens with accession numbers OR947651.1, OR947700.1, and OR947719.1, respectively, matched with those recorded in the GenBank. Findings of the current investigation indicated that various cytokines like IL-1β, MHC-II, and TNF-α rapidly elevated in the infected pigeon's intestines. Additionally, the infection expanded due to the parasite's ejection from the host and the host's clinical affliction, which induced humoral immune responses. Interestingly, investigation of other trematode species is in extreme demand in terms of zoonoses. We suggest controlling snails, managing migratory birds, and examining and frying fishes to the point when the encysted metacercariae is destroyed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a dataset of 3D sagittal left otolith meshes from 339 individual red mullet (Mullus barbatus). These immature specimens were collected from 17 geographical areas covering the entire Mediterranean Sea. Measured biological parameters were: fish total length (TL ± 1 mm, range from 125 to 238 mm), total weight (W ± 0.1 g, range from 14.9 to 168.0 g), sex (S), sexual maturity staging (Mat). The 3D otolith dataset comprises high-resolution meshes of otoliths obtained using microtomography (29.2 μm voxel size). The data offer valuable insights into the morphological variability and population structure of red mullet populations in the Mediterranean Sea. Potential applications of the dataset include age determination, stock identification, and population connectivity analysis. These applications aim to enhance the understanding of red mullet populations and contribute to the sustainable management of marine resources in the Mediterranean Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish contamination by fungi is considered one of the most vital causes of aquaculture losses. Therefore, our study aimed to examine commonly consumed fish species, Mugil cephalus an experimental study investigating the antimicrobial activity on Mugil cephalus. During the 2023, 10 fish samples of Mugil cephalus were randomly collected from Annangkoil landing centre. All samples were examined, fungal disease in Mugil cephalus samples, the average mold count was 1.65 × 102 CFU/g. Two species of fungi were isolated from one species of fish. The common fungal species Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated and identified by from the fish. In addition, we recommend dipping or spraying fish with a kanamycin solution as an effective strategy to reduce the number of fungi in raw fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Haematological parameters are valuable indicators of fish health status. This study aims to provide baseline data on the blood profile of Mugil cephalus and Sillago sihama from Ennore Creek, southeast coast, India and UPRS, Arambakkam from September 2022 to August 2023, at bimonthly intervals. Methods: Blood samples of the said two fish species were collected from Ennore Creek and UPRS Arambakkam during all four seasons to analyse haematological parameters like WBC, Lymphocytes, RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCH and MCHC. Result: The values of haematological parameters were found less in these two fish of Ennore than Arambakkam. Between the two stations (Ennore and Arambakkam), the differences in the values of haematological parameters were found to be highly significant (p<0.01) for both fish. Reduction in the values of haematological parameters of these two fish in Ennore Creek showed that the fishes exposed to pollution-induced stress make them weak, anaemic and vulnerable to diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the anatomy of endocrine glands in fish allows for the formulation of a strategy for their reproduction. The current investigation aimed to investigate the immunohistochemical identification of hormonal-secreting cells in Mugil cephalus pituitary gland. Antisera against both piscine and mammalian hormones were used to complete the immunohistochemistry of the cell types in M. cephalus pituitary gland. The adenohypophysis and the neurohypophysis made up the two main sections of M. cephalus's hypophysis. Moreover, the adenohypophysis obtained exhibited three subdivisions: rostral pars distalis (RPD), proximal pars distalis (PPD), and pars intermedia (PI). In the glandular portion, seven cell types were identified according to their distribution, immunoreactivity, and grouping. The cells of prolactin (PRL) were acidophilic and occupied most of the RPD. They responded positively and specifically to antiserum against salmon PRL. Positive immunoreactivity was observed by antiserum of human adrenocorticotrophic (ACTH), within the lead hematoxylinpositive (PbH+) cells that surrounded the RPD neurohypophysis. Salmon growth hormone (GH) antiserum produced a specific and intense immunoreactivity in the PPD's acidophilic cells. Furthermore, basophilic cells, exhibiting a strong and distinct immunoreactivity to antisera against the subunits Iβ and IIβ of salmon gonadotropin (GTH), were localized in PPD's central area. The cells thought to secrete thyrotropin (TSH) were located between the PPD and RPD in the neurohypophysis. They underwent an adverse immunoreactivity when reacted to rat thyrotropin (rBetaTSH) antiserum. Within the PI, two cell types were identified: PbH+ cells that immunoreacted with alpha-melanin-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) antiserum and cells that displayed a positive immunoreaction to anti-salmon somatolactin (SL) and were classified as Periodic Acid-Schiffpositive (PAS+). Current pituitary gland immunohistochemistry of M. cephalus may help to explain hormonal alterations that take place during reproduction in the nature, in captivity, or when this fish is receiving hormonal treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work is devoted to the study of the abundance, distribution and growth performance of five Mugilidae species in three types of coastal habitats (coastal sea, estuaries and lagoon) located in a limited geographical area in the south-western Mediterranean (eastern coast of Algeria). The four sites considered (Caroube Beach, Mellah Lagoon, Boukhmira and Mafragh Estuaries) are differentiated by their salinity, which evolves at different intervals. The five species enter the considered paralic environments at very small sizes (2–3 cm TL). Regardless of site, Liza saliens is the most abundant (46.92%), followed by Liza aurata (23.72%), Chelon labrosus (13.96%), Liza ramada (11.80%) and Mugil cephalus (3.50%). Each species has a different occupation profile for each site (date of recruitment, relative abundance and demographic structure). The same is true for daily growth, which is better at Mafragh for L. saliens (0.7 ± 0.13 mm/day), at Boukhmira and Mafragh for L. aurata (0.53 ± 0.08 and 0.48 ± 0.09 mm/day, respectively), at Caroube for L. ramada (0.58 ± 0.12 mm/day) and at Mellah for C. labrosus (0.59 ± 0.14 mm/day) and M. cephalus (0.68 ± 0.17 mm/day). The closeness of the daily growth values for the five species to data obtained by various multi-year ageing methods (scalimetry, otolithometry) shows the validity of using otolith microstructures to determine the age of juvenile 0+ Mugilidae. This study shows heterogeneity in the relative abundance, demographic structure and somatic development of the five species considered depending on their habitat and suggests the influence of certain abiotic parameters on some of them. The two most interesting species for aquaculture (Liza ramada and M. cephalus) are relatively the least abundant, but still have interesting potential for freshwater aquaculture, because of their euryhalinity and their interesting maximum length, as well as their relatively fast growth in freshwater. The results of this study are of an applied nature because they contribute to the development of extensive mugilid aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the fish community structure characteristics and changes in Poyang Lake after the Yangtze River fishing ban in 2021, seven sampling stations were established, namely in Hukou, Lushan, Duchang, Yongxiu, Nanjishan, Ruihong, and Poyang, for fishery resource surveys between 2020 and 2021. The results showed that 93 fish species were identified, belonging to 11 orders, 20 families, and 61 genera, which was an increase of 4.5% from before the fishing ban. Of these, 52 Cyprinidae species were identified, comprising the highest proportion (55.91%). Four invasive alien species (hybrid sturgeon, Cirrhina mrigala, Piaractus brachypomus, and Mugil cephalus) were identified, and the number of alien species in Poyang Lake was higher than before the fishing ban. Carnivorous and mid-lower-level fish showed a significant increase, accounting for 47.31% and 38.71% of the total species, respectively. Compared with the Yangtze River before the fishing ban, the body length and body weight of the main economic fish in Poyang Lake increased by 6.10–61.26% and by 15.14–291.57%, respectively. In terms of age structure, the proportion of major economically important fish aged 1 or 2 years decreased significantly, while the proportion of older fish increased substantially. There was little difference in the diversity of fish communities at different stations in Poyang Lake. In terms of biodiversity, the Shannon–Wiener index ranged from 2.158 to 2.909, with Poyang having the highest value and Nanjishan the lowest. Margalef's index ranged from 4.265 to 6.459, with Lushan having the highest value and Nanjishan the lowest. Pielou's index ranged from 0.617 to 0.822, with Duchang having the highest value and Nanjishan the lowest. Hence, the Yangtze river fishing ban has played an important and positive role in the restoration of fishery resources in Poyang Lake. However, long-term tracking and monitoring are needed to provide information to comprehensively evaluate the ecological impact of the Poyang Lake fishing ban. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combined production of three varieties of lettuce (romaine, iceberg, and red leaf) with flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) was tested in triplicate in three independent coupled aquaponic units with no thermal control. For this purpose, a total of 114 fish (2.5 kg/m3) were stocked in each fish tank (2 m3), and 92 lettuces were planted in the hydroponic unit (6 m2). As no thermal control was included in the design of the aquaponic system, water temperatures declined from maximum values of 20.4 °C to minimum values of 5.0 °C, which directly affected fish growth. However, the conditions imposed by the aquaponic system were suitable for promoting lettuce's growth and external appearance, as no pests or leaf discoloration were noticed. Lettuce survival was similar among the three tested varieties (98.5 ± 1.7%). The yields for the romaine and iceberg varieties were 384 ± 100 g/lettuce and 316 ± 70 g/lettuce, respectively, and that for the red leaf variety was lower, at 176 ± 75 g/lettuce. Yield values ranged between 3.6 and 4.4 kg/m2 depending on the replicate considered (4.0 ± 0.4 kg/m2). According to present results, each aquaponic unit required ca. 2.6–2.7 L of water per unit of lettuce produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Qaroun, one of Egypt’s largest lakes, is a remnant of a much larger one; it is considered as a closed basin used as a general reservoir for agricultural wastewater drainage in El-Fayoum Province. Furthermore, the lake receives agricultural and partially treated sewage water from the El-Fayoum Governorate as well as fish farm drainage. The current study assessed the changes in physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal levels (Zn, Pb, Cd, and Cu) in water and sediment, as well as the bioaccumulation of these heavy metals in Mugilcephalus fish samples obtained from Lake Qaroun. Thus, information on histopathological changes in the gills, liver, kidney, end of the alimentary canal, and muscles was provided. This research was conducted in three different locations along Lake Qaroun (Eastern, southeastern, and western). This study confirms an increased heavy metal pollution in the eastern and southeastern sectors of Lake Qaroun, facing the drain outlet, as a result of the discharge of drainage water effluents without prior treatment, which directly affects water quality and fish health, and subsequently human health. The concentrations of Pb and Cd in the water exceeded the allowable limits. The gills are the target organ for Cd in Mugil cephalus, but Pb and Zn are preferentially collected in the kidneys, with the liver containing the highest concentrations of Cu ions. Histopathological changes with an evident damage were visible in the gills, liver, and kidneys of Mugil cephalus taken from the lake’s eastern and southeastern areas. In addition, blood parameters of Mugil cephalus collected from various study sites throughout Lake Qaroun were included in this study. A highly significant decrease was detected in red blood cell counts, hemoglobin content, and hematocrit values of fish collected from the lake's eastern and southeastern parts in comparison to fish collected from the western sector, indicating more or less normal values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals pollution damages coastal swamp ecosystems. This study's primary purpose was to determine the amounts of heavy metals in coastal swamp waters and the tissues of three fish species (Mugil cephalus, Arius sagor and Plotosus lineatus). This study determined that the water in the coastal swamps of South Kalimantan was contaminated with heavy metals in the following order: Fe > Cu > Zn > Cr > Pb > Cd > Hg. The heavy metal concentrations found in the three commercial fish species are as follows: Fe > Zn > Cu > Cr > Pb > Cd > Hg. The bioaccumulation of heavy metals was highest in Mugil cephalus, followed by Arius sagor and Plotosus lineatus. The Fe, Cu and Cr concentrations in Mugil cephalus, Arius sagor and Plotosus lineatus exceeded the international and national MPLs. The liver tissue has the highest capacity to bioaccumulate heavy metals. Regular monitoring of these metals in fish and water sources is recommended to ensure the safety and conservation of coastal swamp wetlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The striped mullet Mugil cephalus is a species of high commercial value with a spawning season that spans from autumn to winter in coastal areas of the northern Gulf of Mexico. The objective of this project was to study an annual cycle of monthly stages of M. cephalus sexual maturity in two southern Gulf of Mexico localities during 2018, to compare results with those reported for the rest of the Gulf of Mexico, and to analyze the spawning temporality vs. tidal oscillations. Specimens were obtained monthly (January–December 2018) from commercial captures collected in Alvarado Lagoon, Veracruz and Puerto Ceiba, Tabasco. Total length, standard length, and total weight were recorded after the fish were eviscerated and the gonads were separated, and sex, eviscerated weight, gonad weight, and the stage of sexual maturity were recorded. A Gonadosomatic Index was obtained, and the gonads with vitellogenetic development were observed to determine the spawning season. M. cephalus spawns simultaneously in both localities, together with virtually synchronous spawning throughout the Gulf of Mexico, from October to March in northern localities and from December to January in southern areas of the Gulf of Mexico. Meteorological tides produced by the "northers" throughout the Gulf of Mexico seem to trigger spawning migrations. The synchronous spawning of M. cephalus supports the evidence that this is a panmictic population in the Gulf of Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, Aeromonas hydrophila was isolated from Tilapia zillii and Mugil cephalus samples collected during different seasons from various Suez Canal areas in Egypt. The prevalence of A. hydrophila, virulence genes, and antibiotic resistance profile of the isolates to the commonly used antibiotics in aquaculture were investigated to identify multiple drug resistance (MDR) and extensive drug-resistant (XDR) strains. In addition, a pathogenicity test was conducted using A. hydrophila, which was isolated and selected based on the prevalence of virulence and resistance genes, and morbidity of natural infected fish. The results revealed that A. hydrophila was isolated from 38 of the 120 collected fish samples (31.6%) and confirmed phenotypically and biochemically. Several virulence genes were detected in retrieved A. hydrophila isolates, including aerolysin aerA (57.9%), ser (28.9%), alt (26.3%), ast (13.1%), act (7.9%), hlyA (7.9%), and nuc (18.4%). Detection of antibiotic-resistant genes revealed that all isolates were positive for blapse1 (100%), blaSHV (42.1%), tetA (60.5%), and sul1 (42.1%). 63.1% of recovered isolates were considered MDR, while 28.9% of recovered isolates were considered XDR. Some isolates harbor both virulence and MDR genes; the highest percentage carried 11, followed by isolates harboring 9 virulence and resistance genes. It could be concluded that the high prevalence of A. hydrophila in aquaculture species and their diverse antibiotic resistance and virulence genes suggest the high risk of Aeromonas infection and could have important implications for aquaculture and public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to estimate the relationship between fish size and otolith size of four creek-associated fishes (Anodontostoma chacunda, Epinephelus diacanthus, Johnius glaucus and Mugil cephalus) collected from the north-eastern Arabian Sea from November 2021 to November 2022. The numerical relations were established using regression between fish size (Total length-TL and Body weight-BW) and otolith dimensions (Length-OL, Weight-Owt, Area-OA, Width-OW and Perimeter-OP). All regressions between the fish size and otolith morphometric measurements were highly correlated (R2 > 0.8), which indicates the robustness of the model. Taxonomists can use findings from this study for species confirmation and reconstruction of past species assemblages. These findings might provide insight into predicting the prey size in food and feeding studies to explore the food web dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine fish is an important source of high-quality, yet relatively cheap animal protein in the Egyptian's diet. Although most parasitic diseases might not cause direct losses of fish, it has deleterious effects on their weight gain and marketability and weaken the fish's immune system paving the way for more serious secondary infections. In this study, we recorded the most common parasitic infestations in marine fish in Egypt in the period between winter 2019 to summer 2021 and described their associated pathologic effects. Four hundred fish from seven different fish species (Mugil cephalus, Pomadasys incisus, Gilthead sea bream, Pagrus Pagrus, Morone labrax (sea bass), thunnus thynnus and Caranx crysos) were randomly collected from the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. Out of the 400 examined fish, 197 (49.25%) infestations were recorded. The isolated parasites were a crustacean, two cestodes, and a nematode and were morphologically identified as follows: Ceratothoa oestroides, Callitetrarhynchus gracilis, Tetraphyllidean larvae and Hysterothylacium deardorffoverstreetorum). Among the infested fish, the highest prevalence of infestation was recorded by Ceratothoa oestroides (43.65%) followed by Hysterothylacium deardorffoverstreetorum (31.98%) and Callitetrarhynchus gracilis (24.37%), and the lowest prevalence rate was recorded by the Tetraphyllidean larvae (15.74%). The pathologic macroscopic and microscopic lesions associated with each type of infestation are described underscoring the importance of continuous search for and application of possible safe control measures for marine fish parasites to spare the fish industry the detrimental effects of these infestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The level of diversity has a crucial role in the stability of the ecosystem. The higher the variety, the more stable an ecosystem, including agricultural land cultivated by farmers. Increasing of population affected the higher demanding of community towards their consumption activities. Especially, the natural resources that comes from local area such as Sukamaju District. Biodiversity of resources urgently needed to preserve the ecosystems meanwhile being the potential source to fulfilled nourishment of the people. This study aims to determine the diversity of peatland ecosystems by using a purposive sampling method in every selection of subject groups based on the characteristics or characteristics of a specific population. Methods: Field and Laboratory activities are needed in this research. Sample collection using several methods according to the targeted sample. Most of the sample using purposive sampling but also line intercept transect method. Fish sampling used a fishing gear called a gill net with a mesh size of 2-7 inches. The fish caught is placed in a labeled coolbox. Insect collection was running in the morning at 07.00-11.00 and in the afternoon at 3-5 pm (UTC+09:00). Sampling is held once a month for three months at predetermined coordinate points. Diversity was analyzed using Shannon-Wienner diversity, evenness index, dominance index and intensity on peatlands. Result: The results found seven orders and 30 families, with a total population of 1,231 individuals. The most dominant types of insects are the orders Coleoptera, Hemiptera and Lepidoptera. High diversity index (H'=3.021), high evenness index (E=0.86243) and low dominance index (D=0.3101). Fish community structure obtained diversity index (H') included in the medium category, for uniformity values in the high class and dominance index values in the low sort. The dominant fish species found were Channa striata, Anabas testudineus, Lates calcalifer, Mugil cephalus, Plotosus papuensis and Toxotes chataerus, while Oreochromis niloticus, Oreochromis mossambicus, Hexanematichthys sagor and Megalops cyprinoides. While the types of molluscs found to have the highest abundance were Pila ampullacea, Pomacea canaliculata and Pilsbryoconcha exilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining appropriate methods to release fish into confined water bodies such as lakes necessitates an awareness of the potential impact on local fish and the ecosystem in general, as well as a cost-benefit analysis. The purpose of this study was to apply various release strategies boosting the survival rate (%) of grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) fingerlings in the lower part of Wadi El-Rayan Lake (WRL) located in Al-Fayoum Governorate, Egypt. This study involved two experiments. The first experiment involved nursing and rearing grey mullet fingerlings in net enclosures (NE-CWT) and an earthen pond for 40 days before releasing them into the WRL. In the second experiment, three groups were studied before being released into the WRL: the first group underwent a nursing experiment (nursing for 40 days for acclimatization), the second group underwent grow out rearing for 334 days, and the third group (control group, continued) was released directly into the WRL, without extended rearing, acclimatization, or CWT recovery. During the first experiment, the growth performance, feed utilization, and survival rates of M. cephalus fingerlings were recorded. Throughout the second experiment, the fishermen collected monthly samples from the WRL to monitor the growth and survival rates of M. cephalus. The data revealed that fish temporarily held in NE-CWT had significantly higher (P< 0.05) final body weight, total weight gain, specific growth rate, and survival rate. Growth trends were similar for the fish temporarily held in EP-CWT. These findings emphasized the significance of short-term rearing and acclimation prior to release for improving the performance parameters of mullet seed compared to direct release into the lake. The study results can be used to increase the effectiveness of future grey mullet (M. cephalus) stockings in the Egyptian lakes. Transferring the results to fishermen's associations in Egypt will provide these groups more time to evaluate and improve the stock enhancement technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Aeromonas hydrophila and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are potent bacterial pathogens posing major hazards to human health via consuming fish harboring these pathogens or by cross-contamination beyond the contaminated environment. The aim of this study was to determine risk variables associated with the presence of certain pathogenic bacteria from Mugil cephalus fish in retail markets in Egypt. The virulence genes of A. hydrophila and S. aureus were also studied. Furthermore, the antibiotic sensitivity and multidrug resistance of the microorganisms were evaluated. Methods: In a cross-sectional investigation, 370 samples were collected from mullet skin and muscle samples, washing water, fish handlers, knives, and chopping boards. Furthermore, fish handlers' public health implications were assessed via their response to a descriptive questionnaire. Results: S. aureus and Aeromonas species dominated the investigated samples with percentages of 26.76% and 30.81%, respectively. Furthermore, A. hydrophila and MRSA were the predominant recovered bacterial pathogens among washing water and knives (53.85% and 46.66%, respectively). The virulence markers aerA and hlyA were found in 90.7% and 46.5% of A. hydrophila isolates, respectively. Moreover, the virulence genes nuc and mec were prevalent in 80% and 60% of S. aureus isolates, respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility results revealed that all A. hydrophila isolates were resistant to amoxicillin and all MRSA isolates were resistant to amoxicillin and ampicillin. Remarkably, multiple drug resistance (MDR) patterns were detected in high proportions in A. hydrophila (88.37%) and MRSA (100%) isolates. The prevalence of Aeromonas spp. and S. aureus had a positive significant correlation with the frequency of handwashing and use of sanitizer in cleaning of instruments. MRSA showed the highest significant prevalence rate in the oldest age category. Conclusion: The pathogenic bacteria recovered in this study were virulent and had a significant correlation with risk factors associated with improper fish handling. Furthermore, a high frequency of MDR was detected in these pathogenic bacteria, posing a significant risk to food safety and public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bardawil Lake is a unique aquatic ecosystem that provides a habitat for various fish and other marine organisms. This study aimed to analyze the quality of fish species to prove that this lake is free of pollution, not other Egyptian lakes, due to the accumulation of some heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn) in various tissues of fish species that were caught from this lake. Thirty-five fish samples were caught during the Spring of 2018 from seven different species: Mugil cephalus, Liza auratus, Sparus aurata, Dicentrarchus labrax, Siganus rivulatus, Anguilla angilla, and Solae solea. The Association of Official Analytical Chemists methods using a spectrophotometer determined the biochemical composition. In contrast, atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) was employed to determine the heavy metals expressed by µg/g wet weight. Results exposed that the accumulation of essential micronutrient (Cu, Zn) content was higher than toxic elements (Cd & Pb) in muscles in order to Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd. Muscles < gills < liver in order of all metals except Pb with order muscles < liver < gills. The metals studied in the muscles were lower than those set by the WHO and the EU standards. The carcinogenic risk with lower allowable limits of 1 × 10–6 to 1 × 10–4 in both normal and high consumption groups; target and total target hazard quotients (THQ & HI) in muscles were < 1. The biochemical composition level was highest in the liver, except for protein, which was highest in muscle for all fish species. There is no evidence of harmful contaminants in the muscular tissue of the fish sampled from Bardawil Lake, although fishing activity. However, customers should know that health concerns may be associated with overeating fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research work provided insights into the expression patterns of key genes in the BPG axis of Mugil cephalus females, highlighting differences between wild and captive environments during the spawning season. The investigated genes include Kiss2, Gpr54, Gnrh1, and Drd2 in the brain and ovary, as well as Lhβ, Fshβ, and Slα in the pituitary and ovary. The finding indicated that the relative expression of all examined genes is elevated in mature females compared to immature ones across all examined tissues (brain, pituitary, and ovary). The observation that the expressions of the examined genes in wild females of M. cephalus are highly correlated, either directly or inversely, with their counterparts in captive females, indicated a connection between gene expression patterns and the different environments (wild vs. captive). The results between wild and captive females were in significant values (P≤ 0.05). Overall, the observed correlations and significant differences in gene expression proposed potential impacts of captivity on the reproductive physiology of these fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fishes of the Mugilidae family are poorly known from a taxonomic perspective, largely because of their conservative morphology. In this paper, we aim to fill the knowledge gap and data deficiency regarding the genetic diversity of mullets occurring in southern peninsular India. A comprehensive mitochondrial phylogeny based on 238 COI sequences (78 newly generated) and three species delimitation methods (ASAP, RESL, and ABGD) confirmed the presence of 21 species of mullets within eight genera in southern peninsular India. These include one species each under the genera Rhinomugil Gill 1863, Minimugil Durand, Chen, Shen, Fu, and Borsa, 2012, Plicomugil Schultz 1953, and Ellochelon Whitley 1930; seven species of Planiliza Whitley 1945; four species of Crenimugil Schultz 1946; four species of Osteomugil Luther 1982; and two species of the "Mugil cephalus Linnaeus 1758" complex—though with uncertainty regarding the exact geographic origin of one of the two species of the "Mugil cephalus" complex and one species phylogenetically close to Planiliza subviridis (Valenciennes 1836). We provide an overview of the specific geographical regions in southern peninsular India, and "species groups", which require future research using an integrative approach, so as to unravel the true extent of mullet diversity and their distribution in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioaccumulation of heavy metals can cause physiological and biochemical alterations in aquatic animals. Accumulation of Cd and Pb and oxidative response in the liver and muscle of fish species; Scatophagus argus, Plotosus lineatus, Netuma thalassina and Mugil cephalus were evaluated. Accumulation of Cd, Pb and oxidative response indicated by malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly higher in the liver than muscle in all coastal fish species. Antioxidative parameters, such as reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), varied. S. argus exhibited the highest levels of Cd and Pb accumulation, both in the liver and muscle. Simultaneous activation and depression of oxidative defense mechanism was depicted in S. argus's liver which indicated by positive correlation of Pb to CAT activity and negative correlation of Pb to SOD activity. Positive correlation was significance for Cd and Pb accumulation in the liver and muscle of M. cephalus, which may be used for pollution biomonitoring. The present study indicated the oxidative response to Cd and Pb accumulation was emphasise in liver, while oxidative response varied in each coastal fish species. Accumulation of Cd, Pb, and oxidative status, i.e., lipid peroxidation level indicated by malondialdehyde (MDA), was significantly higher in the liver than muscle in 4 coastal fish species (Scatophagus argus, Plotosus lineatus, Netuma thalassina, and Mugil cephalus). S. argus exhibited the highest levels of Cd and Pb accumulation, both in the liver and muscle, when compared to other three coastal fish species. The liver's oxidative response to Pb was high in S. argus, and represented simultaneous activation and depression of antioxidative defense mechanism. A significant positive correlation was revealed for Cd and Pb accumulation in the liver and muscle of M. cephalus, which may be used for pollution biomonitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased frequency and magnitude of harmful algal blooms (HABs) from anthropogenic nutrient enrichment is of great concern in estuarine systems worldwide. Despite estuaries being important fish nurseries, a paucity of knowledge exists on the impacts of HABs on estuarine fishes due to the sporadic and unpredictable nature of HABs. Thus, this study aimed to determine the frequency and magnitude of HABs and the subsequent impact on the abundance of a common estuarine-dependent Mugilidae species, Mugil cephalus, in the shallow low inflow and agriculturally altered warm temperate Sundays Estuary in South Africa. The sampling design adopted a monthly (monitoring over 2 years between 2018 and 2020) and twice weekly (for 7 weeks during known spring/summer HABs in 2018) day and night sampling approach. It was hypothesised that Mugil cephalus abundance would be negatively related to phytoplankton biomass since HABs would result in unfavourable daytime supersaturated dissolved oxygen surface water and night-time bottom-water hypoxia. This study found that the Sundays Estuary was dominated by the HAB species, Heterosigma akashiwo, which significantly altered the dissolved oxygen in the estuary resulting in frequent supersaturated surface waters and hypoxic bottom waters. Mugil cephalus abundances were negatively related to phytoplankton biomass, with instances of high abundance (CPUE > 10) only being found at sites characterised as not experiencing severe bloom conditions (< 60 Chl-a µg.L−1). This avoidance of HABs suggests that if unsustainable levels of agricultural fertilisation continue, resulting in more severe and frequent HABs, a major decline in fish nursery quality in the estuary may occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the global increase in fish consumption, the growing side-streams coming from the fish supply chain (e.g., skin, fins, tail, heads...), also including undersized or "unwanted catches", have been recently proposed as source of high-value bioactive compounds (e.g., peptides and fatty acids). In this case study, hydrolyzed collagen peptides (HCPs) were extracted from different parts of Mugil cephalus L. using environmentally friendly techniques such as ultrasounds and enzymatic treatments. Both a mixed biomass derived from the skin, fins, and tail, and a whole fish, were considered as starting biomass, simulating the unsorted processing side-streams and an undersized/unwanted catch, respectively. The extracted HCPs were purified in fractions (<3 KDa and >3 KDa) whose yields (about 5% and 0.04–0.3%, respectively) demonstrated the efficiency of the hydrolysis process. The extraction protocol proposed allowed us to also isolate the intermediate products, namely the lipids (about 8–10%) and the non-collagenous proteins (NCs, 16–23%), whose exploitation could be considered. Each sample was characterized using Sircol, UltraViolet-Spectra, and hydroxyproline assay, and the viability of their collagen fractions was tested on human endothelial cells. Significant effects were obtained at a fraction of <3 KDa, in particular at a concentration of 0.13 µg/mL. The T-scratch test was also performed, with positive results in all fractions tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the microbiome composition and interplay among bacterial communities in different compartments of a coupled freshwater aquaponics system growing flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) and lettuces (Lactuca sativa), 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing of the V3–V4 region was analysed from each compartment (fish intestine, water from the sedimentation tank, bioballs from the biological filter, water and biofilm from the hydroponic unit, and lettuce roots). The bacterial communities of each sample group showed a stable diversity during all the trial, except for the fish gut microbiota, which displayed lower alpha diversity values. Regarding beta diversity, the structure of bacterial communities belonging to the biofilm adhering to the hydroponic tank walls, bioballs, and lettuce roots resembled each other (weighted and unweighted UniFrac distances), while bacteria from water samples also clustered together. However, both of the above-mentioned bacterial communities did not resemble those of fish gut. We found a low or almost null number of shared Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) among sampled groups which indicated that each compartment worked as an independent microbiome. Regarding fish health and food safety, the microbiome profile did not reveal neither fish pathogens nor bacterial species potentially pathogenic for food health, highlighting the safety of this sustainable food production system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to evaluate the microbiological status of some farmed fish species marketed in Sharkia Governorate then compared with Egyptian standard of chilled fish. keeping quality parameters also examined (pH, TVN, TMA and TBA) and compared with Egyptian standard of chilled fish. A total of 150 samples of farmed fish of Nile cages, concrete ponds and Earthen ponds 50 of each (25 Tilapia nilotica and 25 Mugil cephalus) respectively from the market in Sharkia governorate were examined during autumn 2021. For keeping quality parameters, all examined samples were within the acceptable limits according to ES (3494:2005). The obtained results of microbiological analysis revealed that the percentage of the exceeded permissible limits of aerobic plate count (APC) was 12% and 32%,20% and 16%,12% and 20% for Tilapia nilotica and Mugil cephalus in Nile cages, concrete ponds and Earthen ponds respectively. For total coliform count, all positive examined samples exceed permissible limits of coliform count (2 log10 CFU/g) according to ES (3494:2005). The incidence of Staphylococcus aureus was 0% and 11%, 36%, and 32%, 16% and 12% for Tilapia nilotica and Mugil cephalus in Nile cages, concrete ponds and Earthen ponds respectively. Listeria species were detected in 20% and 8%,8% and 16%, 20% and 0% for Tilapia nilotica and Mugil cephalus in Nile cages,concrete ponds and Earthen ponds, respectively. Escherichia coli was 24% and 20%,8% and 16%, 16% and 20% for Tilapia nilotica and Mugil cephalus in Nile cages, concrete ponds and Earthen ponds respectively. Salmonella species were 4% and 12% for both from Nile cages and from concrete ponds and 4% and 12% in earthen pond Tilapia nilotica and Mugil cephalus respectively. Serological identification of E. coli, Salmonella and Listeria in these samples was showed in this search. So hygienic and proper practices performed during transportation and handling of fish are needed before consumption of this fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mugil cephalus Linnaeus, 1758 is a teleost fish widely distributed in coastal waters that plays an important role in commercial fisheries. In the present study, the complete mitogenome of M. cephalus from the Yellow Sea, China, was sequenced using Illumina Novaseq sequencing. The mitogenome of the M. cephalus was 16,744 bases in length (GenBank accession No. ON262567) including 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes and a D-loop control region. The overall base composition of the genome was 28.2% A, 29.5% C, 26.9% T, and 15.4% G. The analysis of genetic similarity and phylogenetic relationship of M. cephalus from different geographic regions of the world indicated that the species from the Yellow Sea was most similar to NWP1 which is one of the three cryptic species of M. cephalus in Northwestern Pacific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red mullet (Mullus barbatus) is a commercially relevant fish species, yet epidemiological data on anisakid nematode infestation in M. barbatus are scarce. To fill this gap, we report the occurrence of Anisakis larvae in red mullet in the Ligurian Sea (western Mediterranean). This survey was performed between 2018 and 2020 on fresh specimens of M. barbatus (n = 838) from two commercial fishing areas (Imperia, n = 190; Savona, n = 648) in the Ligurian Sea. Larvae morphologically identified as Anisakis spp. (n = 544) were characterized using PCR-RFLP as Anisakis pegreffii. The overall prevalence of A. pegreffii was 24.46%; the prevalence at each sampling site was 6.32% for Imperia and 29.78% for Savona. Furthermore, 3300 larvae of Hysterothylacium spp. were detected in the visceral organs of fish coinfected with A. pegreffii, showing that coinfection with two parasitic species is not rare. This study provides a timely update on the prevalence of ascaridoid nematodes in red mullet of the Ligurian Sea, an important commercial fishing area in the Mediterranean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wadi El Natrun is an elongated narrow depression in the Western Desert of Egypt. The depression characterized by many ancient alkaline salt lakes. These lakes are filled with water in winter and dried up in summer. Recently, some lakes become permanently dried, while others become submerged throughout the year as El Bieda Lake. El Bieda Lake has undergone ecological changes due to the prolonged extraction of minerals and the continual discharging of freshwater. This study investigates the recent biotic and abiotic changes of this lake and discusses its fisheries opportunities. The lake's water is well-oxygenated, rich with different inorganic nutrients, and characterized by a low salinity. Sodium and chloride ion concentrations are lower than the equivalent surface seawater, while magnesium, calcium, potassium, sulfate, and bicarbonate ions are higher. The lake has low plankton species richness with high biomass and high nutritional values. More recently, two cichlid species, Oreochromis aureus and Coptodon zillii, have colonized the lake. Summer characterized by a very low mortality for Oreochromis aureus and a poor representation of Coptodon zillii. However, both species shared the catch the rest of the year. The high biomass and nutritional quality of plankton communities, as well as the dense phytobenthic film, indicate that the lake is currently below its carrying capacity. The well-oxygenated water, high biomass of plankton and phytobenthic diatoms, and the expected changes in salinity suggest that introducing the euryhaline, commercially valuable, and fast-growing Mugil cephalus or Chelon ramada in El Bieda Lake is highly advisable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying the breeding grounds of fishes is crucial for the sustainable management of fisheries resources. The present study is aimed at identifying the potential breeding ground of Mugil cephalus along the estuary of the North Mumbai coast. A total of 1197 specimens of M. cephalus, including 546 eggs, 271 larvae, 235 juveniles, and 235 adults, were collected from four sampling stations in the Karanja estuary between January to October 2022. Water quality parameters, plankton dynamics in the estuary, and the reproductive and feeding biology of M. cephalus were also examined. The eggs, larvae, juveniles, and adults were identified using traditional morpho-meristic and DNA barcoding techniques. The results revealed a potential spawning ground of M. cephalus in the Karanja estuary. The results of reproductive biology also confirmed the occurrence of matured fishes during May–July. The abundance of eggs and larvae at the estuary's mouth and the presence of juveniles and mature individuals of M. cephalus dominantly in the Karanja estuary from May to July infer the presence of a spawning site. It is also recorded that M. cephalus spawn in higher salinity (35 ppt) and seawater temperature (33 °C) where the hatching of offspring takes place successfully. This study emphasizes the significance of DNA barcoding in guiding routine monitoring surveys and demonstrates its usefulness when combined with these techniques in identifying fish spawning grounds. The study findings will serve as baseline information to develop effective conservation and management strategies and protect the ideal spawning stock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Otolith features such as size and weight were analysed in 656 fish specimens of Chelon auratus, Chelon labrosus, Chelon saliens and Mugil cephalus collected from the Köyceğiz Lagoon System, Aegean Sea, southwest Turkey. The aim was to calculate the asymmetry value of the otolith length (OL), otolith width (OW) and otolith weight (OWe). The asymmetry value of OL was greater than that of OW and OWe. The asymmetry value of the three otolith parameters increased with an increase in the fish's length. The probable cause of asymmetry in the otolith parameters investigated has been determined relative to the variability in growth prompted by ecological impact linked with the disparity in water temperature, salinity, depth and contaminants existing in the Köyceğiz Lagoon System. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first study to examine the presence and physicochemical properties of microplastics in mullets (Mugil cephalus) from four coastal areas in East Java, Indonesia. Three locations on the north coast are affected by two largest rivers, Bengawan Solo River and Brantas River, whereas one location in the south coast is slightly impacted by river flow. The abundance, color, shape, and size were examined in the gills, stomach, and intestines of fish samples. The average abundance of microplastics was 10.87 particles/individual in gills, 7.43 particles/individual in stomach, and 4.35 particles/individual in intestines. Black (72.4%) and pellets (62.7%) were the most abundant microplastics found. Most of them are in size of less than 100 μm (71.0%). Microplastics type of polymer was identified with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, while the chemical compounds including additives such as plasticizers contained in MPs samples were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Seven different types of polymers were identified, including polyethylene, polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, and polycarbonate. Cyclohexadiene, one of the plasticizers detected, has the highest concentration of 81.82%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of environmental variables (oceanographic and climatic) on the catch rates of striped red mullet (Mullus surmuletus) by artisanal fishery was investigated using different time series models (Dynamic Factorial Analyses; Min-Max Factorial Analyses and Generalized Least Square models). Climatic and oceanographic survey data were collected at different areas of the Portuguese coast (Northwestern, Southwestern and South-Algarve) with distinct oceanographic regimes. Time series analyses reveal an effect of fishing effort in catch rates in Southwestern areas. Variability in M. surmuletus catch rates was associated to regional environmental multi-controls. Upwelling and westerly winds were the main drivers of catch rates variability across the three areas but the type of relationship varied among them. A consistent relationship between catch rates and environment factors was identified during the peak period of seasonal recruitment (spring to summer) in Southwest and South-Algarve coast, with Upwelling-summer and Sea surface temperature-spring affecting short term (lag 2 years) catch rates. In South-Algarve the increase in SST in summer, during peak of spawning, was correlated with the catch rate increase with a lag of two years. Environmental effect on catch rates reveals that fisheries management needs to accommodate the regional effect of environment variables on species biology to better define future assessment plans (catch limits). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flathead gray mullet (Mugil cephalus L.) is a cosmopolitan fish that lives in warm and temperate zones over 42°N-42°S. It is a key fish species for industrial fishing off coastal Taiwan. Gray mullets enter the coastal waters of the southeastern Taiwan Strait (22°N-25°N) to spawn in winter and feed in the coastal and tidal waters of China (25°N-30°N). From 1986 to 2010, the annual catch of gray mullet decreased substantially and remained low. Although the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and El Niño-Southern Oscillation are recognized to affect gray mullet migration, the increase in sea surface temperature may be the main cause of the aforementioned decrease. We explored how weather changes affect fishing conditions and patterns at the gray mullet fishing grounds in Taiwan's coastal areas. Because of the decrease in gray mullet catches, the most common method for catching gray mullet in Taiwan's coastal areas between 1990 and 2010 was the use of drift or trawl nets instead of two-boat purse-seiner fleets. Since 2012, purse-seiner fleets have become the most common method for catching gray mullet. This trend indicates that the local fishing industry is adapting to changing environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mugil cephalus is an estuarine species that has been shown to acclimate to a diversity of environmental conditions being a good candidate to diversify aquaculture. The objective of this study was to evaluate the growth and water quality of M. cephalus juveniles in a biofloc technology system (BFT). Over a period of 87 days, mullet juveniles (117.36 ± 6.48 g) were reared in two experimental conditions: water exchange (control group) (50% three times a week) and BFT (C:N ratio of 15:1). M. cephalus juveniles were stocked at a density of 7.2 kg·m−3. Water quality parameters were monitored periodically. Fish were fed with a balanced artificial feed for marine fish (2% of the total biomass). The water quality parameters were similar between the treatments, with the exception of pH, alkalinity, TSS, and N-NO3 (p < 0.05). Zootechnical parameters WG, DWG, BG, SGR, condition factor, and survival did not show significant differences (p > 0.05). The biomass gain was higher in BFT (p < 0.05). Water quality variables did not appear to influence mullet survival under culture conditions. Mullet is a species that can be reared in BFT without compromising productive performance and having a significant saving of water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to assess the suitability of a microalgal blend as a dietary ingredient for feeding juveniles of marine carnivorous and herbivorous teleost, as is the case of Sparus aurata and Mugil cephalus, respectively, and to isolate microorganisms from different media and characterize them on the base of their enzymatic activities and their antagonism against important fish pathogens. Thirty juveniles of each species (70 ± 3.2 g S. aurata mean weight and 47 ± 2.8 g M. cephalus mean weight) were distributed in four tanks (15 individuals each) corresponding to four independent dietary treatments (control and microalgae diets designed for each species). Fish were fed their corresponding diets ad libitum for 108 days. At the end of the trial, fish were weighed, and plasma, liver, perivisceral fat, and the entire intestines were obtained for the evaluation of growth performance and metabolic assessment. Furthermore, 117 bacterial strains were isolated in different culture media from the gastrointestinal tract of S. aurata fed the microalgae blend and further characterized for their potential use as probiotics in aquaculture. S. aurata fed the microalgae-supplemented diet (25% dietary inclusion) showed a significant increase in weight gain, specific growth rate, feed efficiency, hepatosomatic, and intestine length indices. However, growth performance and somatic indices in M. cephalus were not affected by the experimental diets. Plasma samples from S. aurata fed the microalgal diet revealed higher levels of glucose and triglycerides and a decrease in cortisol levels. No significant differences were found in any biochemical parameters among the experimental diets in M. cephalus. In conclusion, both species demonstrated a favorable adaptation to the nutritional formulation employed in this study, and bacterial strains UMA-169 and UMA-216 (both identified as Bacillus pumilus) could be considered for use in aquaculture as they might benefit host health by improving digestion and absorption of different energy sources and by minimizing the colonization of pathogenic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along Africa's western coast, many local communities rely on the ocean for their livelihood. Over the last decades, introductions of new fishing techniques along with globalizing trade have strongly changed local fishing practices.The Parc National du Banc d'Arguin (PNBA) in Mauritania had for centuries been subjected to an artisanal, low‐impact, fishery. This fishing was exclusively oriented towards migratory bony fish species, mullet (Mugil cephalus) and meagre (Argyrosomus regius). Since the 1980s, these species have been replaced by illegal catches of internationally traded elasmobranchs (sharks and rays) and by non‐migratory and relict species (resident) such as tilapias (Sarotherodon melanotheron) and catfishes (Arius sp.).To date, most monitoring and management efforts have been dedicated to evaluating changes in elasmobranch populations and less focus has been on bony fish species. Data from a fishery monitoring programme are used to analyse the trends in effort, catch and catch per unit of effort of bony fish species by fitting non‐parametric generalized additive models to capture changes in the fish community over the last 20 years.Mullet and meagre became overfished early on, and the contribution of resident species (tilapias and catfishes) increased in the catches. Together with a pattern of increased effort on the traditionally targeted species, such a change in the catch could reflect a change in the fish community.These results call for the implementation of sustainable fishing practices within PNBA. We propose the need to implement closures of fisheries during the species' breeding periods as well as the use of biological reference points such as the size at first capture and maximum sustainable yield targets for resident species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Totoaba macdonaldi is an endangered endemic fish of the Gulf of California. Overexploitation resulted in the Mexican government banning the fishing of this species in 1975, and it being listed as endangered. However, the species is still subject to illegal fishing. Despite its conservation status, little is known about totoaba biology. The present study aimed to implement, for the first time, a metabarcoding protocol to describe the totoaba diet. Four wild totoaba individuals, seized by Mexican law enforcement agents, were dissected, and their stomach contents were collected. Three representative amplicon libraries were generated for cephalopods, chordates, and eukaryotes. After sequencing, 18 different taxa were identified, of which 11 species were recognized as prey. The totoaba were found to have consumed Pacific anchovy (Cetengraulis mysticetus), flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus), bigeye croaker (Micropogonias megalops), northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax), ocean whitefish (Caulolatilus princeps), milkfish (Chanos chanos), and Pacific sardine (Sardinops sagax). Members of the Euphausiidae family (krill) were also identified. This study identified up to four times more species in much fewer samples than previous studies based on morphological recognition, thus confirming metabarcoding as an effective method for studying the feeding habits of this species and one providing the tools required for further analysis of the totoaba diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibrio alginolyticus, Vibrio chlorea, and Enterococcus cloacae were the main bacterial pathogens investigated during recurrent episodes of mortalities among farmed flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) in the Bahar El-Baqar area, Sharqia governorate, Egypt, during the summer season in 2021. Nevertheless, the contamination of water with heavy metals was evaluated. In this study, a total number of sixty moribund and freshly dead Mugil cephalus were examined clinically and upon post-mortem. Then, the bacterial isolates were subjected to bacteriological phenotypic examination, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and antibiotic sensitivity testing. Histopathological screening and the immunity response of naturally infected M. cephalus were also implemented. In areas where bacterial strains were recovered in a high percentage, water contamination with Cu, Fe, and Ni was higher than the permissible limit. The results showed a high similarity (99–100%) to Vibrio and E. cloacae strains using phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA. Most isolates exhibited sensitivity to florfenicol, ciprofloxacin, and norfloxacin, while they were resistant to erythromycin and amoxicillin. Hemorrhage, oedema, hemosiderosis, and melanomacrophage activation in most affected tissues of infected M. cephalus were detected by light microscopy. Nevertheless, higher levels of AST and ALT, as well as serum inflammatory markers, CRP, and lysozyme activity, were shown in infected fish. There were higher MDA levels, along with a reduction of GSH, SOD, and catalase, in the gills and brain of infected M. cephalus, compared to the control fish. Our obtained data confirmed the high prevalence of Vibrio serovars and E. cloacae in infected grey mullets, describing their histopathological alterations, higher inflammatory response, and oxidative stress impact. These results could be useful indicators for understanding the pathogenesis of these pathogens in correlation with water parameter deterioration. Thus, the emergence of Vibrio and E. cloacae species in this study threatens the brackish water aquaculture industry in Egypt and poses a public health concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing interest in examining of economically important fish species with excellent mariculture potentials in lagoons of coastal states. Members of the family Mugilidae, which are permanent residents in Lagos Lagoon form a mainstay of fish protein source and are potential candidates for such investigations. Lengthfrequency distribution, length-weight relationship, condition factor and molecular characteristics of two grey mullets, Mugil cephalus and Liza falcipinnis were investigated in Lagos Lagoon. A total of 52 samples (26 specimens of each species) of the fish were collected from the Lagos Lagoon. The standard length ranged from 10.0 - 19.2 cm and 12.0 - 18.2 cm for M. cephalus and L. falcipinnis respectively, with corresponding weights of 13.90 - 105.00 g and 36.00-129.00 g respectively. It is concluded that the growth pattern of the species showed negative allometric, b = 0.32 and 0.65 respectively. The condition factors were 1.81 and 2.16 respectively and this means both species were in good condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Sustainable aquaculture expansion will be crucial for the food security of a growing population expected to reach ~10 billion by 2050. Larval rearing is one of the most complex phases of marine aquaculture due to the need for additional facilities and labor to produce zooplankton to feed the larvae. Therefore, establishing adequate protocols for each species to shift from the live to the inert feed is crucial for more suitable management and profitability of the production. For those reasons, three different co-feeding protocols, A100 (2 initial Artemia sp. mL−1 day−1), A50 (1 initial Artemia sp. mL−1 day−1), and A0 (0 Artemia sp. mL−1 day−1, only rotifers administered as live feed), were evaluated from 22 to 36 days post-hatching (dph) in the weaning of the flathead grey mullet, a promising species for sustainable aquaculture diversification. Survival, growth, biochemical composition, and gene expression of digestive enzymes and growth hormones were assessed. The A0 treatment performed better in survival, while the A100 treatment was the best for growth performance. The expression of the different genes evaluated did not show differences between treatments. In conclusion, rotifers should be maintained until 30–32 dph (total larval length of at least 10 mm) to maximize survival, while Artemia sp. supply is recommended from 26 to 29 dph (total larval length of 8 to 9 mm) to improve larval growth and minimize size dispersion. The sustainable expansion of aquaculture relies on a sufficient supply of eggs and larvae, which are the first step of life cycle management. However, marine fish larval rearing generally depends on live feed production, which needs additional facilities and labor. The flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus), a promising species for aquaculture diversification, has a precocious digestive system development, supporting the feasibility of early weaning strategies. For these reasons, this study evaluated survival, growth, proximate and fatty acid composition, and gene expression of Mugil cephalus larvae reared under three different weaning protocols. Three co-feeding treatments, two with different Artemia sp. concentrations (A100 and A50, 2 and 1 Artemia sp. mL−1 day−1, respectively) and one with only rotifers administered as live feed along the feeding trial (A0), were assessed from 22 to 36 days post-hatching (dph). The A0 treatment performed better in survival (64.79 ± 7.40%) than the A100 protocol (32.46 ± 12.82%). In contrast, the larvae of the A100 treatment presented significantly higher final length (15.51 ± 0.86 mm) than those of the A0 treatment (12.19 ± 1.45 mm) and higher final weight (41.28 ± 1.48 mg) than those of the A50 and A0 treatments (31.23 ± 3.65 mg and 24.03 ± 7.99 mg, respectively). On the other hand, the expression of digestive enzyme- and somatotropic factor-related genes did not show differences between treatments. The present results support the convenience of treatment A0 in maximizing survival, as rotifers should be maintained until 30–32 dph (until a total larval length of at least 10 mm). However, to improve growth and minimize size dispersion, Artemia sp. addition is recommended from day 26 to day 29 post-hatching (total larval length of 8 to 9 mm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, flathead grey mullets (Mugil cephalus) cultured in Eilat (Israel) have been highly affected by Vibrio harveyi, showing neurological signs such as uncoordinated circular swimming followed by high mortality rates. Despite the advances in and different approaches to control vibriosis associated with Vibrio harveyi, including commercial vaccines, most of them have not succeeded in long-term protection. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness, long-term protection, and antibody production of three vaccine preparations: heat-killed bacteria (HKB), membrane proteins denaturation (BME PROT), and internal proteins (INT PROT) developed specifically against Vibrio harveyi for grey mullets. Our results show that fish immunized with heat-killed bacteria emulsified with adjuvant presented the most effective and long-lasting protection against the bacterium, and a cross-protection against other bacteria from the harveyi clade. The effectiveness of each immunization treatment correlated with the levels of specific antibody production against Vibrio harveyi in the serum of the immunized fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authentication of food products and the verification of their identity are of major importance for consumers. Food fraud through mislabeling is an illegal practice consisting of the substitution of an expensive food product by a relatively cheaper one, misleading false labelling of their origin and adulteration in processed or frozen products. This issue is particularly of high importance concerning fish and seafood, which are easily adulterated primarily due to difficult morphological identification. Fish species of the Mullidae family are considered among the most high-valued seafood products traded in Greece and Eastern Mediterranean in general, in terms of the price and demand. Specifically, the red mullet (Mullus barbatus) and the striped red mullet (Mullus surmuletus) are both indigenous in the Aegean (FAO Division 37.3.1) and the Ionian (FAO Division 37.2.2) Seas, with high levels of consumers' preferences. However, they could be easily adulterated or misidentified by the invasive Aegean Sea Lessepsian migrator goldband goatfish (Upeneus moluccensis) as well as by the imported West African goatfish (Pseudupeneus prayensis). Keeping this in mind, we designed two novel, time-saving and easy-to-apply multiplex PCR assays and one multiple Melt–Curve analysis real-time PCR for the identification of these four species. These methodologies are based on species-specific primers targeting single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) detected via sequencing analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (CO1) and of the cytochrome b (CYTB) genes in newly collected individuals, with additional comparison with congeneric and conspecific haplotypes obtained from the GenBank database. Both methodologies, targeting CO1 or CYTB, utilize one common and four diagnostic primers, producing amplicons of different length that are easily and reliably separated on agarose gel electrophoresis, yielding a single clear band of diagnostic size for each species or a certain Melt–Curve profile. The applicability of this cost-effective and fast methodology was tested in 328 collected specimens, including 10 cooked samples obtained from restaurants. In the vast majority (327 out of the 328) of the specimens tested, one single band was produced, in agreement with the expected products with a single exception a M. barbatus sample that was identified as M. surmuletus, the identity of which was confirmed using sequencing, indicating erroneous morphological identification. The developed methodologies are expected to contribute to the detection of commercial fraud in fish authentication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three juvenile Atlantic tripletail Lobotes surinamensis caught opportunistically in Charleston Harbor (South Carolina, USA) and maintained in captivity for over three months displayed an altered swimming behavior. While no direct causation can be demonstrated herein, fish were infected in their brain by strigeid trematode larvae (metacercariae) of Cardiocephaloides medioconiger, which were identified via ITS2 and 28S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Histology showed nonencysted metacercariae within the brain ventricle between the optic tectum and tegmentum, causing distortion of tegmental parenchyma. Aggregates of mononuclear inflammatory cells were in the ventricle adjacent to metacercariae. Metacercarial infection by Cardiocephaloides medioconiger has been reported from the brain and eyes of only two other fish species from the northern US Atlantic coast: the grey mullet Mugil cephalus and silverside Menidia menidia, but this identification is problematic and needs molecular verification. Atlantic tripletail is a new report as a second intermediate host for C. medioconiger and South Carolina is a new locality. Cardiocephaloides species in general have a low host specificity and infection by C. medioconiger could propagate to other fishes and affect neighboring natural ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]