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This feeding trial was conducted for replacing of fish meal with rice protein concentrate (RPC). For this purpose, five diets with the same protein and energy (40% and 21 KJ g -1 DM respectively) were made. Fish meal was replaced with RPC by levels of 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%. Experimental diets fed to kutum fry (initial weight of 340±20 mg) three times daily to satiation for 60 days. The highest final weight (1020 mg) and weight gain (670 mg) and the lowest FCR (1.5) were observed in the 50% substitution treatment, which was significantly different from the other treatments (P < 0.05). The survival rate was 100% and the same for all diets. No significant difference was observed in carcass composition (moisture, protein, lipid and ash) between different treatments (P > 0.05). By increasing the amount of replacement of rice protein concentrate, the amount of n -3 decreased and the amount of n -6 increased (P<0.05). The ratio of n -3 to n -6 did not change significantly up to the level of 25%, but it showed a significant decrease with the increase of the substitution level. The amount of total amino acid did not change significantly among the treatments with the increase in the concentration level. The highest amount of essential amino acids was related to the 25% treatment, which was significantly different from the control, 50, 75 and 100% replacement treatments. In general, the results of this study showed that rice protein concentrate can be used as a substitute for fish meal up to 50% in the diet without significant change in the growth of Kutum fry. Of course, the quality of carcass fatty acids was not maintained at this level, and the 25% level was more suitable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to testify a phylogenetic hypothesis for the genus Rutilus in the Southern Caspian Sea using sequence variation of mitochondrial and nuclear genes and to define the taxonomic status of phylogenetic clades represented in this region. Phylogenetic analysis was based on the variability of mitochondrial genes cytochrome b and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and nuclear recombination activating gene 1 and inter-photoreceptor retinoidbinding protein. Compared to previous studies, this phylogenetic analysis included significant material from the South Caspian, both from the collected samples and from GenBank data. As a result, only two species of Rutilus were confirmed in the ichthyofauna of the studied region. The first of them corresponds to R. lacustris, therefore, materials from the South Caspian can be included in genetically identified vouchers of this species to determine its morphological diagnostic features. The second species represented separate sister phylogenetic lineage for the Pontic populations of R. frisii sensu lato. Due to the low genetic distance between the Caspian and Pontic lineages and the strong overlap of their morphological features, but previously proven divergence in separate Pleistocene refugia, the Caspian populations are classified in this study as a subspecies R. frisii kutum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the primary cell lines were derived from caudal fin explants of the Caspian Kutum (Rutilus frisii kutum), using two treatments (tissue culturing without enzyme and after trypsin treatment). For this purpose, pieces of caudal fin tissue (1 millimeter cubic) were isolated from 10 healthy young fish with an average weight of 12±1 g and a mean length of 11±1cm in sterile condition then were explanted in L-15 medium (Leibovitz L-15) with fetal bovine serum (10 and 20%) and penicillin-streptomycyne at pH 6.8 and 7.2 and kept at 21 and 24 °C. From the second day, a mixture of various cell types was observed and attached to the cell culture flask, but the uniform cell layer consist of cells with heterogeneous epithelial morphology and fibroblast-like were appeared after 12 to 14 days. Subculture was performed using trypsin enzyme. In subcultures, a single cell layer consists of cells with homogeneous epithelial morphology was formed. So far, these cells have been passaged for 21 times. Results indicate the possibility of producing a permanent cell line from the fin tissue of Rutilus frisii kutum.

The vitellogenin gene expression can be altered by some estrogenic plant compounds like Genistein and β-sitosterol. Therefore, the measurement of vitellogenin gene expression can be used as an indicator to determine their effect on reproductive performance of aquatic animals. In order to evaluate the effects of genistein and β-sitosterol on the expression of vitellogenin gene in the liver and ovary of Rutilus frisii Kutum, the fish were separately exposed to 3 levels of genistein and beta-sitosterol (500, 50 and 10 ng/L). After 21 days, the RNA extracted and expression of vitellogenin gene in both the liver and ovary was investigated by Real-time PCR. The results showed the level of vitellogenin gene expression in fish exposed to genistein was higher in liver than control and β-sitosterol treatment. This difference was not observed in the ovarian tissue. Because the main site of vitellogenin synthesis expressed liver and it was controlled by endogenous estrogen (E2), so, it seems phytoesterogenic compound such as genistein has been able to increase the relative expression of this gene in fish Exposed to 500 ng/L.

The current research was conducted to examine the benefits of Mentha longifolia (ML) administration through diet on growth performance and haematological, biochemical, and immunological parameters of Caspian kutum (Rutilus frisii kutum). Fish with average weight of 3 g were fed for 8 weeks with diets supplemented with 0%, 2%, 4% and 6% ML‐extract. Feeding with 6% ML for 8 weeks significantly improved the growth performance. The highest values in total protein content, protease and esterase activities were observed in the 6% ML. Feeding with 4% and 6% ML led to a significant increase in the alternative complement, respiratory burst activities and total immunoglobulins in blood as well as lysozyme activity in the mucus and serum. The enhancement of skin mucus immune parameters was observed in fish fed with dietary (≥4%) ML supplement. The mucosal antibacterial effects revealed that the highest ML concentration (6%) had the maximum bacterial growth inhibition zone diameter (mm) and MIC compared with other groups in the study. White blood cell numbers and haematocrit values were significantly higher than in the control groups following the use of 4% and 6% ML. The highest red blood cell counts resulted from the use of 6% ML. Although 4% and 6% ML led to a decrease in the number of lymphocytes, the neutrophils increased after using the same dose, compared with the control group. Triglycerides levels significantly decreased in fish fed with 4% and 6% ML; however, no significant changes were observed in other blood biochemical parameters. Thus, it can be concluded that diets supplemented with ML‐extract could significantly impact Caspian kutum by improving growth performance and boosting their immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fipronil is a relatively new insecticide in agriculture with health and environmental effects. This is the first report studying effect of fipronil on fish administered via intraperitoneal route. Intraperitoneal LD50 of fipronil in 16.3 g Caspian kutum, Rutilus frisii kutum, fingerlings was determined using a total of 133 fish in 19 tanks (7 fish/tank) including one control and 6 treatment groups (300, 450, 550, 650, 750, 850 mg/kg). Fish were injected intraperitoneally and monitored at 96 h. The LD50 of fipronil was 632 mg/kg in Caspian kutum. Sub-lethal test doses of 10, 20, and 30% of the LD50 at 96 h were used to assess the effect of fipronil on the fish’s liver. The blood plasma of 90 fish were used (18 at each test dose and in controls) on days 7 and 14 for biochemistry. The hepatosomatic index (HSI) of the livers were obtained and histopathology done on the same days. Pyknosis, sinusoid dilation and vacuolization were common histological changes, and these changes became more severe in a time and dose dependent manner. This dependence was also observed for HSI and the liver biochemical test (alanine and aspartate transaminase). Liver histological alterations showed that fipronil can be a potential factor in liver carcinoma.

Heavy metal pollution in marine environments and the potential for bioaccumulation of contaminants have been considered as a serious threat for a long time. These contaminants accumulate in fish body and then transferred through the food chain to humans. The aim of this study was to determine the heavy metals cadmium, lead, arsenic, mercury and copper and iron metals in muscle and fish oil (Rutilus frisii kutum ،Clupeonella cultriventris ،Liza saliens). Three samples of Rutilus frisii kutum ،Clupeonella cultriventris and Liza saliens were caught in Mahmoud Abad area. One part of the muscle was dried by freeze drying method and another part was used to extract the oil. Then, using the atomic absorption spectrometric and Mercury Analyzer heavy metals concentrations were determined in muscle and fish oil. The results of muscle showed the highest accumulation of mercury (0.347±0.018), cadmium (0.08±0.001), copper (1.2156±0.059) and iron (2.643±0.231) in Rutilus frisii kutum and the highest level of lead (0.3593±0.015) and arsenic (0.0892±0.001) in Liza saliens. Moreover, in the fish oils samples, lead and mercury had the highest concentrations. The heavy metals in the samples were lower than or close to international standards. Therefore, their use does not pose a health problem for the consumers.

The effects of chitosan (Ch) (Medium molecular weight chitosan) coating combined with natamycin (Ch+ N) on quality of salted kutum (Rutilus frisii kutum) roe (treated with 4% NaCl salt) during refrigerated storage (4±1°C) were studied over a period of 90 days. A solution of Ch (1%, w/v) and Ch+ N (1%, w/v Ch +5 and 10 mg natamycin per Kg salted roe) was used for the coating. The control (salted roe) and the coated roe samples were analyzed periodically (0. 30, 60 and 90 days) for chemical (TVB-N, PV, TBA), remaining salt and pH characteristics. The results indicated that the chitosan coating enhanced the storage quality of the kutum salted roe as compared to an uncoated salted roe (control). Chitosan coating combined with natamycin afforded better protection than chitosan coating for chemical parameters (TVB-N, PV, TBA). Remaining salt was determined lower than 2% for all treatment. The conclusion was showed the combination of chitosan coating and natamycin at a 10 mg per Kg of roe were increased shelf life of the kutum roe.

Aim. The aim of the study was an attempt to expand on the findings about the structure of the anterior part of the mid-intestine of three species of carp fish: Rutelus frisii kutum (Kamenski), Abramis brama orientalis and Ciprinus caprio (Linne) in connection with the feeding habits in the changed conditions of the western coast of the Middle Caspian sea. Studies of the digestive tract can extend the idea of the specifics of the mid-intestine structure due to the feeding of fish in certain environmental conditions of habitat.Methods. Investigations of the digestive tract were carried out, guided by the "Methodological manual" by I.V. Verigina.Findings and discussion. It is shown that in the anatomical and histological structure of the middle intestine was affected by the feeding habits of these types of fish; feeding upon small and soft invertebrates leads to a relatively simple structure of the intestinal wall: mucous layer covers a small part of the total thickness of the wall; there are no collagen structures that perform the function of the mechanical frame and capsules around blood vessels.Conclusion. Simplification of the digestive system emphasizes adaptive capacity appearing in periodic fluctuation of sea water level. The absence of food of a bigger size in the diet of fish results in a relatively simple anatomical and histological structure of the mid-intestine wall. None of the species under study has a differentiated stomach; instead its role is taken by an expanded portion of the fore intestine, similar is the microstructure of the middle part of the intestines of all three species.

In this study, total phenolic and flavonoid contents of grapefruit peel extract (GPE) were equal to 117.3 ± 0.3 µg of gallic acid/mg and 39.30 ± 0.1 µg of quercetin/mg respectively. Caspian white fish (n = 180, 4 ± 0.9 g body weight) was fed with supplemented diets, including 0, 6.25, 12.5 and 25 mg of GPE/kg for 60 days at 25 ± 1°C. The growth performance was markedly improved in fish fed with 25 mg/kg of GPE compared to others (p < 0.05). Moreover, fish fed with 25 mg/kg of GPE showed a significant increase in red blood cell (2.65·106 cell/mm3), white blood cell (17.75·103 cell/mm3), packed cell volume (48%) and haemoglobin concentrations (8.75 g/dl) compared to the control (p < 0.05). However, the highest alanine aminotransferase (140 U/L), alanine transaminase (14.5 U/L), and alkaline phosphatase (18.5 U/L) were observed in control group. Morphological analysis of intestine revealed the highest amount of villus width (8.4 µM), height (32.86 µM) and surface area (342.7 µM2) in fish fed with 25 mg/kg of GPE (p < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementing feed with GPE at 25 g/kg can improve growth performance and haemato‐biochemical parameters of Caspian white fish fry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kutum is considered as one of the anadramous species of the Caspian Sea. Due to continuous population decline of the fish since 1975, Iranian fisheries organization started to restock this species. Nowadays, there is growing concern over the effects of restocking on natural populations. For this purpose, population structure and genetic variation of this species in the Iranian coastline of Caspian Sea were investigated by using microsatellite markers. The results showed that the average genetic variation of kutum in the southern coast of the Caspian Sea is lower than those reported for the most anadramous fish. After applying the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) test, all populations were found to be significantly deviated from HWE. IN spite of high number of migration between the Cheshmekileh and Gharasu populations, there is 3 different populations of Cheshmekileh, Gharasu, and Sefidrud in the Caspian Sea. The reported results could be of interest to management and restocking programs of this species in Caspian Sea.

Background: Marine products, especially fish, play an increasingly significant role in human diets and health. This research evaluated the concentrations of cadmium, lead, chromium, and nickel in liver and muscle tissues of Rutilus frisii kutum along the Caspian Sea coasts of northern Iran. Methods: Thirty samples of fishes were taken from five stations (Astara, Rezvanshahr, Anazali, Ramsar, and Tonekabon) during fishing season. An ICP-OES spectrophotometer was used to determine concentrations of the studied metals. Data was analyzed by SPSS 19 using descriptive statistical index, t test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test; P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Mean concentrations of cadmium, lead, chromium and nickel in the livers were 0.06, 1.1, 2.1 and 1.5 µg/g respectively and in the muscles were 0.05, 0.8, 1.7 and 1.1 µg/g, respectively. In liver: cadmium= 0.01-0.13; lead= 0.3-2.7; chromium = 0.9-4.5; nickel = 0.1-2.8. In muscle: cadmium = 0.01-0.08; lead = 0.2- 1.5; chromium = 0.7-2.7; nickel = 0.5-1.5. Mean contents of these heavy metals were higher in the liver than in muscle. The order of heavy metal concentrations in the liver and muscle tissues were: Cr>Ni>Pb>Cd. The results showed statistically significant differences in the concentrations of these metals in liver and muscle tissues (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed between males and females. Conclusion: Based on calculations, the estimated permissible tolerable weekly intakes (PTWIs) of cadmium (0.042 and 0.567 mg) and lead (0.0021 and 0.027 mg) in this study are lower than the levels established by the World Health Organization (WHO) (0.455 mg for cadmium and 1.625 mg for lead).

The aim of this study was to determine the accumulation of nickel and cobalt in the edible tissues of Crucian (Rtilus frisii kutum) and to compare their concentrations with the FDA/FAO standards. For this purpose, the fish samples were caught from western, central and eastern stations of Anzali wetland. Using a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer, Ni and Co contamination were determined. According to the results, the mean value of Ni concentration in the samples caught from the eastern and central stations were 0.93 and 0.80 µg/g, respectively which were not statistically different. Moreover, Ni concentration in the central region was estimated at 1.13 μg/g, which was not significantly different from the FDA standard. In the case of Co, the average concentration in the western parts was below the detection limit; however in the central and eastern parts Co level was 0.13 and 0.07 μg/g dry weight, respectively that was in the approved limit adopted by FDA and FAO. Besides, the difference of Co concentration in the eastern, western as well as central stations was not significantly different. Based on the results, Ni and Co contents in edible tissues of Crucian of the eastern, western and central stations of Anzali wetland were found suitable for human consumption.

Introduction: Modulation of intestinal microbiota toward potentially beneficial communities (probiotics) positively affects fish physiology and health status. Different prebiotics showed contradictory effects on intestinal microbiota. The present study investigates the effects of different levels of two prebiotics, galacto- and fructooligosaccharide on intestinal microbiota of Caspian roach fry which is a commercially valuable species of Caspian sea. Materials and methods: The study was performed as a randomized design with 5 treatments and 3 replications in which Caspian roach were fed different levels, 0, 1, and 2% of galacto- and fructooligosaccharide prebiotics for 6 weeks. At the end of the trial culture, analysis of intestinal microbiota include lactic acid bacteria levels, total bacteria as well as proportion of LAB were performed by using MRS agar, Plate count agar media. Results: Administration of different levels of galacto- and fructooligosaccharide had no significant effects on total bacteria of intestinal microbiota (P > 0.05). The lactic acid bacteria levels significantly increased compared to control group following prebiotics administration in diet (P > 0.05). LAB levels in galactooligosaccharide treatment were higher than those of fructooligosaccharide treatment. The highest LAB proportion in intestinal microbiota was observed in roach fed diet which contains 2% galactooligosaccharide (P > 0.05). Discussion and conclusion: The results of the present study revealed that prebiotics can be used for modulation of Caspian roach intestinal microbiota toward beneficial bacterial communities. Also, the results showed that galactooligosaccharide was more efficient than fructooligosaccharide in case of modulation of intestinal microbiota and elevation of LAB levels.

In this study the effect of iron of Fe (So4)2 (7H2O( and probiotics BioPlus 2B on some blood parameters was investigated on 270 of Rutilus frisii kutum fry with total weight of 0.4±0.1 gr and total length of 3.9±0.3 cm in nine treatments and triplicates during 60 days. Results showed that the highest number of red blood cells (RBCs) (1.65×106± 1.55 per mm3), hemoglobin concentration (7.36±0.15 g/dl), hematocrit concentration (24.03±0.85 %), MCV (1.45±1.48 Fl), MCH (46.29±0.25 pg) and lymphocyte (92±2) belong to treatment 5. The highest level of MCHC (34.65±0.67 g/dl) and the greatest level of white blood cells (6.6±100 per mm3) were observed in treatments 4 and 8, respectively. The findings of this research showed that treatment 5 contained the highest amount of iron (7 mg/kg of feed) and probiotics (CFC 1.6×109) resulted in the highest amount of red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCV, MCH and lymphocytes in this study.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different levels of Mentha piperita extract on growth factors, survival rate and body composition of Rutilus frisii kutum fry. For this purpose, four groups of fish with mean weight of 1.12± 0.14 g were raised for 56 days in plastic tanks (40 fish to each tank) and feeding with different levels of M. piperita with concentrations of 0, 1, 2.0 and % 3.0. At the end of the trial, growth factors (final weight, weight gain, SGR, feed conversion ratio (FCR), survival rate and body composition were determined and compared with control group. Our results showed that R. frisii kutum fry fed on diet supplemented with 3% M. piperita had significantly higher growth factors and survival rate compared to other treatments (P0.05). Based on the results, using of M. piperita extract, especially at the level of 3.0% can improve the growth performance and survival rate of R. frisii kutum fry.

Introduction: The intestinal microbiota of fish belongs to different species compare to terrestrial animals, mainly Gram-negative bacteria are predominant. Despite importance as probiotic, gram-positive bacteria like Lactobacillus Sp. are minor constitutes of gut microbiota. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of modulation of Kutum intestinal microbiota and elevation of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) levels through administration of yeast based prebiotic. Materials and methods: The study was performed as randomized design with 5 treatments and 3 replications in which kutum were fed different levels, 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 % of yeast based prebiotic for 60 days. At the end of the trial, culture based analysis of intestinal microbiota include lactic acid bacteria levels, total bacteria and obligatory anaerobic bacteria were performed by using MRS, TSA, SPS media. Also, the isolated lactic acid bacteria species were determined by biochemical test. Results: The highest and lowest lactic acid bacteria levels observed in 0.5 % treatment and control treatment, respectively (P value > 0.05). Also, administration of 0.5 % yeast based prebiotic significantly increased total viable bacteria (P value > 0.05). The highest and lowest obligatory anaerobic bacteria were recorded in control and 0.5 and 1 % treatment (P value> 0.05). The biochemical test revealed isolation of three species Lactobacillus plantarum, L. caseie, L. acidophilous in the intestinal microbiota after administration of yeast based prebiotic. Discussion and conclusion: The results of this study determined that administration of 0.5 % yeast based prebiotic significantly modulates the intestinal microbiota of kutum fry toward potentially beneficial communities (i.e LAB).

The mucus layer covering the surface of fish contain a high number of antimicrobial compounds that provide a first line of defense against aquatic pathogens. In the present study, bactericidal activity present on skin mucus of Caspian kutum (Rutilus frisii kutum) broodstock was tested against six pathogenic bacterial strains (Streptococcus iniae, Yersinia ruckeri, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli). Furthermore, fungicidal activity was assessed against four pathogenic fungi (Saprolegnia sp., Fusarium solani, Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus). Maximum and minimum antibacterial activity was observed against Y. ruckeri and S. iniae, respectively, while maximum and minimun fungicidal activty was detected against F. solani and C. albicans, respectively. Curiously, antimicrobial activity was higher in the fish mucus of female than male against most tested strains. In addition, minimum inhibitory concentration test showed that minimum concentrations of mucus ranged between 125 to 500 μg/L were able to inhibit the growth of the selected bacterial and fungal pathogens. Alkaline phosphatase, lysozyme, protease and esterase activities were also studied on mucus samples being the observed activities very similar between both sexes, although higher lysozyme activity was detected in the mucus of female fish in comparison to the values recorded on male samples. Skin mucus of this fish species (especially females) could be a potential source of newer and more effective antibacterial components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present research, we aimed to investigate organochlorine toxins accumulated in both Rutilus frisii kutum and Liza aurata captured at the southern Caspian Sea. At six sampling stations, organochlorine toxins were measured in fish tissues by the gas chromatography–electron capture detector (GC-ECD) method. Total organochlorine toxins ranged from 2.102 ppb to 9.033 ppb in L. aurata at the study area. The highest content of total organochlorine toxins was obtained at station 5, whereas the lowest content was achieved at station 4. In L. aurata , lindane showed the highest level among the measured components (1.642 ppb), whereas α-lindane showed the highest mean level of the measured components (0.57 ppb). In this investigation, the total amount of organochlorine compounds in R. frisii kutum was more than that in L. aurata , but these compounds indicated no significant difference between the two types of fishes ( p  > 0.05). Moreover, the measured components in both types of fishes were lesser than the allowable limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of single or combined administration of dietary fermentable fiber (Vitacel ® ) and probiotic PrimaLac ® on mucosal immune parameters, digestive enzyme activity, gut microbiota and growth performance of Caspian white fish ( Rutilus frisii kutum ) fingerlings. Fish were transferred to laboratory, acclimatized for two weeks and then fish (0.56 ± 0.026 g) were allocated into 12 tanks (30 fish per tank). Triplicate groups were fed a basal diet (Control) or basal diet supplemented with fermentable fiber [Vitacel ® ] (FF), probiotic [PrimaLac ® ] (P) and combined fermentable fiber and probiotic (FF + P). At the end of feeding trial, growth performance and feed utilization parameters were significantly ( P < 0.05) improved in FF, P and FF + P treatments compared control group. Evaluation of digestive enzyme activity revealed significant ( P  < 0.05) increase of lipase activity in fish fed supplemented diet. However, amylase, protease and alkaline phosphatase were significantly higher ( P < 0.05) only in P and FF + P treatments. Furthermore, total autochthonous intestinal microbiota and autochthonous LAB levels significantly increased in fish fed supplemented diet ( P < 0.05). Also, inclusion of FF, P and FF + P in Caspian white fish diet remarkably increased skin mucus immune parameters compared control group ( P < 0.05). These results indicate that singular or combined administration of FF and P can be considered as a beneficial dietary supplement for early stages of Caspian white fish ( Rutilus fresii kutumn ) culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to investigate mercury level in three species of fish such as Sander lucioperca , Liza aurata , and Rutilus frisii kutum . Sampling was done in the southern coasts of the Caspian Sea. The ranges of mercury level in S . lucioperca , L . aurata , and R . frisii kutum were 104.67–675.33 ppb, 60.66–175.33 ppb, and 123.33–170.33 ppb, respectively. Results revealed that the mercury level in S . lucioperca was more than the allowable limit at several sites, while it was less than the allowable limit in R . frisii kutum and L . aurata at all sampling sites. Further, the target hazard quotient (THQ) index for S . lucioperca was >1 at some sites and <1 for other species at all sites. The maximum allowable consumption for each species at the study area was measured daily and monthly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Hsp70 chaperone from Rutilus frisii kutum was identified, cloned, expressed, purified and its functional characteristics revealed. The 3D structure of Hsp70 from Rutilus kutum was constructed using the crystal structure of E. coli Hsp70 as the template, with 47% sequence identity. The in vitro ATPase activity assay after 60 min, ATP hydrolysis of purified recombinant Hsp70 (8 μM) was improved by binding to denatured thermally luciferase (3 μM) about 2.5-fold compared with that of Hsp70 alone. Based on the results, it was found that the purified Hsp70 chaperone was able to considerably suppress heat-induced aggregation of luciferase by binding to DnaJ co-chaperone (5 μM) more than 70% after 10 min at 42 °C. In addition, Hsp70 DnaJ complex improved the refolding of heat-shocked luciferase nearly 40% after 60 min at 25 °C. It was concluded that Hsp70 protein from Rutilus frisii kutum has the critical role in preventing heat-induced aggregation of luciferase and refolding of heat-denatured luciferase was strictly dependent on the activity of Hsp70, thus, this protein can potentially be used for improving the functional properties of luciferase in various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproduction in most fish species is a scheduled phenomenon and spawning occurs at a precise time ensuring maximum survival of offspring. During the spawning season, reproductive activities of fish species and their daily entry to rivers are influenced by environment. Number ofRutilus frisii kutumentered a river discharging to Caspian Sea was analyzed to investigate the association between timing of river entry and day–night changes in environmental variables. Four thousand five hundred and sixty seven ascending adult kutum were collected in Khoshkrood River between March and May 2012. Physicochemical parameters were recorded and Melatonin levels were measured in a hundred migratory kutum over day and night during the spawning period. A significant effect of daytime on river entry was observed, as more fish entered the river at night. Melatonin levels decreased to the minimum level during peak days of migration, suggesting variations in melatonin levels can help to harmonize the daily rhythm in kutum migration. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study was conducted to determine and compare the concentrations of mercury ( Hg ), cadmium ( Cd ), arsenic ( As ), lead ( Pb ), nickel ( Ni ), iron ( Fe ), zinc ( Zn ), copper ( Cu ), manganese ( Mn ), cobalt ( Co ), and selenium ( Se ) in the muscle of wild and farmed carp ( Cyprinus carpio ) and wild and farmed Caspian kutum ( Rutilus frisii kutum ) collected from south-western Caspian Sea areas of Iran between December 2014 and March 2015. In addition, risk assessment of consumers to exposure to metals through fish consumption was estimated. In all the samples, the arsenic concentration was lower than the detection limit. The Pb , Cd , Hg and Mn concentrations were significantly higher in the wild fish samples compared to the farmed fish samples. There was no significant difference in the Fe , Zn , Cu , Co , Ni and Se concentrations of the wild and farmed carp and the wild and farmed Caspian kutum . Iron displayed the highest concentration of all the analysed metals in both the wild and farmed fish, followed by Zn and Cu . The highest Hg , Cd , Pb , Ni , Fe , Zn , Cu , Mn , Co and Se concentrations were 0.056, 0.011, 0.065, 0.120, 4.151, 3.792, 2.948, 2.690, 0.037 and 0.162 μg g −1 , respectively. The estimated daily intake of all metals was acceptable, and the hazard quotient values showed that consumption of the analysed fish posed no health risk to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The acceleration of final oocyte maturation and ovulation is recognized as a principal process in Caspian kutum Rutilus frisii kutum, a commercial and valuable species in Caspian Sea. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of catecholaminergic pharmaceutics which include Salbutamol (β2-adrenergic receptor agonist), Metoprolol (β1-adrenergic receptor antagonist), Clozapine and Olanzapine (the third generation of D4 and D2 dopamine receptor antagonists) which can be more efficient than the first and second generations, in combination with Buserelin ([D-Ser( tBu)6,Pro9- NEt]-Gn RHa) and Ovaprim (D-Ala6,Pro9-Net)- sGnRH+Domperidone on ovulation and spawning induction in Caspian kutum. One hundred eight adult females were injected once with Buserelin Acetate ( BUS) 5 μg kg−1 BW, Ovaprim 0.5 mL kg−1 BW, Salbutamol Sulphate ( SLB) 4 mg kg−1 BW, Olanzapine ( OLZ) 5 mg kg−1 BW, Clozapine ( CZ) 12 mg kg−1 BW and Metoprolol Tartrate ( MTP) 5 mg kg−1 BW, being divided into 12 groups: group 1, intact (negative control); group 2, Ovaprim (positive control); group 3, OLZ+ SLB; group 4, OLZ+ MTP; group 5, OLZ+ BUS; group 6, CZ+ SLB; group 7, CZ+ MTP; group 8, CZ+ BUS; group 9, OLZ+ BUS+ SLB; group 10, OLZ+ BUS+ MTP; group 11, CZ+ BUS+ SLB and group 12, CZ+ BUS+ MTP ( N = 9). The results showed that the highest mean value in ovulation success, ovulation index, fertilization success, relative fecundity and the number of eggs belonged to Ovaprim treatment. On the other hand, spawning was successful in OLZ+ BUS+ SLB and CZ+ BUS treatments ( P < 0.05), whereas it was lower in CZ+ MTP, CZ+ BUS+ MTP and OLZ+ BUS than the other treatments. Therefore, it could be concluded that Clozapine and Olanzapine potentiated the effect of Buserelin treatment in ovulation and spawning induction, while Metoprolol blocked the stimulatory effects of Gn RHa, Clozapine and Olanzapine. Salbutamol also can amplify stimulatory effect of all mentioned pharmaceutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caspian kutum, Rutilus frisii kutum, is one of the most commercially important fish species in the Caspian Sea, but there are few reports about the endocrinology of induced spawning in this fish. In the present study, 54 individuals of female broodstocks of Kutum were studied for quantity and quality of propagation index, during March and April 2007. Hormone treatments include: LHRH-A2 (1 µg kg-1bw; chlorpromazine (2.5 mg kg-1bw); LHRH-A2 + chlorpromazine (1µg kg-1bw+2.5 mg kg-1bw); CPE as a positive control (1 mg kg-1bw); Physiological saline as a negative control; and normal brood stocks without injection. For histological examinations, ovarian samples of non-ovulated females were fixed in bouin's fluid. The routine procedures of preparation of tissues were followed and the paraffin blocks were cut at 5- 7 microns, stained with H&E and studied under light microscope. The results showed that the highest percentage of ovulated females belonged to group 1 without significant difference with positive control. There was a significant difference between ovulated females in the LHRH-A2, chlorpromazine and LHRH-A2 + chlorpromazine treatments (P0.05). Chlorpromazine could not be a potent dopamine antagonist and the microscopic observations of ovary in non- ovulated brood stocks showed that the oocytes in these treatments were in the final phase of IV stage.

Kutum, Rutilus frisii kutum, is an commercially important fish in the Caspian Sea. The fish enters the rivers leading to the Caspian Sea for spawning. One of these rivers is Shiroud River. In the artificial propagation process of Kutum, different factors are involved in quality and quantity of female broods eggs and also in the best temperature and migration time for spawning. The influence of temperature and migration time on some fecundity indices and fertilization rate of female kutum in Shiroud River was studied in the spawning season. In this study, 90 individual females were studied from February to May 2007. Averages of total length, weight and age were 43.26 cm, 832.08 g, and 4.41 respectively. Results showed that maximum egg diameter (1.86 mm), number of eggs per each gram of body weight (309.12), relative fecundity (56.21) and fertilization rate (95.82 %) were obtained from 5 to 20 April (15.95°C). Maximum ovary weight (201.00 g) and absolute fecundity of eggs (49987.18) were obtained from 6 to 20 March (17.74°C). Relationship between temperature and migration time and fecundity indices was linear and weak.

Background and Objective: Fish as well as other aquatic animals have become an important source of protein diets. Heavy metals due to their specific physical and chemical characteristics as well as their side effects on various ecosystems are considered as a major contaminator of marine environments. Therefore determine determination of Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Cobalt (Co) and Manganese (Mn) intensity in Rutilus frisii kutum and Cyprinus carpio fishes of Caspian sea. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive study, levels of Zinc, Copper, Cobalt and Manganese were evaluated, using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (A.S.S) technique, in tissues of two commonly consumed fish in Iran, namely Rutilus frisii kutum and Cyprinus carpio, collected from the southern coastline of the Caspian sea. Results: The mean±SD average concentration of Zn, Cu, Co and Mn were detected as (μg g-1) dry weight of Rutilus frisii kutum’s tissues were 29.97±0.57, 9.45±0.09, 0.30±0.01 and 0.20±0.01, respectively. These values for Cyprinus carpio were detected as: 30.20±0.14, 9.14±0.07, 1.08±0.03 and 0.71±0.02, respectively. Conclusion: This study showed that, the concentration of Zn, Cu and Co in Rutilus frisii kutum, Cyprinus carpio fish tissues were higher than standard base of Brian.

In this study the effects of toxic pesticides, Diazinon (60% emulsion) on the some tissues of (Rutilus frisii kutum, Kamensky, 1901) male brood stocks were studied. The test were studied under static water quality conditions at 15 °C ± 2 ºC in winter and spring 2009. The effective physical and chemical parameters of water were pH= 7-8.2, dh= 300 mg/L (caco3), DO= 7 ppm and T= 15 °C±2 ºC. LC50 96h pesticide Diazinon on the first 0.4 mg/L was determined and then fish were exposed by the toxin with 3 concentrations, MAC value, LC1, LC5, and a control with three replicates for 45 days. Pathology results showed toxin diazinon no effect on average weight and fish body length, the average weight of heart and brain but caueses decrease of gonad weigth and gonad index and also, cause complications of atrophy, fibrosis and necrosis in testis , vascular congestion, increased distance between the myocardium and fibrous string in heart and neuronal loss, vascular congestion and edema in the brain of kutum male brood stocks.

The Boojagh international wetland with a surface area of 80 hectares and 25 fish species is located in the southwest shores of the Caspian Sea (Guilan province, Iran), but there is no report about fish parasites in this wetland. In the present study, a total of 553 individuals of 8 fish species including Cyprinus carpio (n=71), Abramis bjoerkna (n=153), Carassius auratus gibelio (n=89), Esox lucius (n=39), Rutilus rutilus caspius (n=36), Rutilus frisii kutum (n=81), Scardinius erythrophthalmus (n=119) and Tinca tinca (n=4), were collected in October 2001 through November 2003. Eight parasite species were identified in the fishes consisting of 1 nematode: Raphidascaris acus (in E. lucius and S. erythrophthalmus); 1 cestode: Caryophyllaeus fimbriceps (in R. rutilus caspius and C. carpio); 2 digenean trematodes: Asymphylodora tincae (in T. tinca) and Diplostomum spathaceum (in all of the fish species except for T. tinca and S. erythrophthalmus); 2 monogenean trematodes: Tetraonchus monenteron (in E. lucius) and Dactylogyrus sp. (in C. carpio, A. bjoerkna and C. auratus gibelio); 1 crustacean: Lernaea cyprinacea (in A. bjoerkna, T. tinca and R. rutilus caspius) and 1 leech : Piscicola sp. (in R. rutilus caspius and C. carpio). The occurrence of R. acus in S. erythrophthalmus and also that of C. fimbriceps in R. rutilus caspius are reported for the first time as new host records.

In order to identify the sex marker in Mahisefied, Rutilus frisii kutum, samples from 5 male and 5 female fish were collected from the south Caspian Sea. Polymerase chain reaction random amplified polymorphic DNA (PCR-RAPD) was performed using 124 primer sets. All bands were numbered using 1 and 0 scores corresponding to the presence or absence of bands, respectively and data were analyzed using RAPDPLOT program. Results indicated that 44 sets of primers did not show any flanking site and produced no bands, while the remaining 80 produced sharp and visible bands on polyacrylamid gel. In total, 1600 bands were scored. However, none of the bands corresponded to either the male or female fish. According to the results it has been concluded that RAPD technique failed to detect sex and cannot be considered as a robust molecular tool for sex differentiation in the studied fish. The reason may be the absence of sex chromosomes in this species or that the genes corresponding to sex differentiation are spread on different autosomal chromosomes with interaction of some environmental factors.

The toxic effects of water soluble fraction (WSF) of crude oil on the gills of juvenile kutum roach, Rutilus frisii kutum, were investigated. The juvenile (1-2g) kutum roach were collected in summer 2008 from the Kolmeh Hatchery Center, Golestan province, and acclimatized to laboratory conditions through keeping them in a 300 liter tank with dechlorinated water for a minimum of 8 days. Six different types of WSF concentrations were made to obtain LC5096h including 27, 29.25, 31.5, 33.75, 36 and 38.25ppm. Then, 10 fingerlings of R. frisii kutum were exposed to the WSF concentrations, for 96 hours. Considering mortality rate of the juveniles in 96 hours and using Probit value statistical analysis, LC5096h was obtained at 33.95ppm. Two different concentrations (0.1 LC50 and LC50) of WSF were prepared for further assessments and after 24 and 96h of exposure, 3 individual fish were collected from each aquarium for histopathological studies. The gill sections with 3 micron thickness were prepared, stained using H & E, and examined by light microscope. General damages after observation included: Epithelial lifting, congestion in filament and lamellae, clubbing, fusion, hypertrophy of epithelial cells of lamellae, different levels of hyperplasia between lamella and aneurysms. Pathological studies showed that the WSF of crude oil causes serious damage in gills of juvenile R. frisii kutum, leads to malfunction of this organ which will harm homeostasis of the fish.

The population structure of Rutilus frisii kutum in southern coasts of Caspian Sea was investigated using microsatellite loci. 50 Kutum fish samples were collected from Gorganroud (Golestan province) and Cheshmekile (Mazandaran province) rivers in April 2006. All the 10 loci investigated in this study (Ca1, Ca3, CypG3, CypG24, CypG27, CypG30, Lid1, Rru2, Rru4, Z21908) were polymorphic. The mean number of alleles at the population level was 7.95 which is lower than the reported values for anadromous fishes. Both populations showed signs of bottleneck. The mean value of observed heterozygosity was 0.80 for Gorganroud and 0.74 for Cheshmekile, respectively. Among the 20 tests of population-loci, 11 samples showed significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Results from Fst (0.008) and Rst (0.04) values showed low genetic differentiation among the populations, also, AMOVA analysis indicated only 4% genetic diversity between populations. The values of genetic distance was 0.03 among the regions. It seems that mismanagement of kutum’restocking programs has had negative effects on the genetic structure of this species.

This research was carried out over a period of 60 days in the summer and autumn of 2005 in the Caspian Sea Aquaculture Research Station (Inland Water Aquaculture Research Center). Fingerlings of Rutilus frisii kutum weighting one gram were transferred to fiberglass 100 liter tanks each stocked with 35 fish. The fish were divided into five groups and treated with five treatments and three replicates including, fresh water, 4ppt, 6ppt, 8ppt, and 10ppt salinity by completely randomized design. We found that different salinities did not affect the mortality rate of the fish. Comparison of food conversion ratio (FCR), special growth rate (SGR) and weight gain (WG) between control and other treatments revealed a significant difference (p£0.05). We also found that the 4ppt treatment differed meaningfully with 8ppt and 10ppt treatments in terms of FCR, SGR and WG (p£0.05) and the same was true between 6ppt and 8ppt and 10ppt treatments for the FCR, SGR and WG. The results showed that the maximum and minimum weight gain were related to 10ppt treatment (mean 58.9±2.71) and control (mean 39.1±4.73) respectively. The minimum special growth rate (0.549±0.057) was referred to the control treatment and the maximum (0.772±0.028) was seen in 10ppt salinity. The minimum average FCR (3.93±0.122) was seen in 10ppt salinity and the maximum (5.6±0.601) was observed in the control treatment. According to the results, it is suggested that the optimal salinity for fingerlings with mean weight 1gr is 8ppt and 10ppt.

The relationship between morphometric characteristics, motile spermatozoan percentage and sperm motility duration among male breeders of Rutilus frisii kutum in four different rivers (Shirud, Khoshkrud, Sefidrud and Chalevand) of the southwestern part of the Caspian Sea and water osmolarity, pH and temperature in four region of each river (estuary, river entrance to sea, artificial reproduction site and upstream) were considered. The mean motility duration time was 37.2±4.2, 41.4±3.9, 52.9±2.1 and 47.8±3.4 in the four rivers respectively. Also, the percentage of motile cells was found to be 49±4.1, 58.2±6.8, 74±4.8 and 68.1±5.9% for the rivers respectively. The mean osmolarity, temperature and pH were 71.7±66, 62.5±85.5, 40.2±34.2,36.7±34.4 mOsml/l, 14, 15, 13.6±0.2,14oC and 7.6±0.1, 7.2±0.1, 7.4±0.1 and 7.2±0.1 respectively. Our findings showed that there is a positive relationship between motile spermatozoan percentage and duration of motility. With the decrease in river water osmolarity from estuaries up to the river upstream, the motile spermatozoan. percentage and their duration increased. According to anadromous behaviour of the fish, with increasing distance from artificial breeding sites toward river upstream, quantity of spermatozoa and spermatozoan activity increased enhancing success in fertilization attempts.

Physiological changes in cortisol, glucose, testosterone and 17 b-estradiol levels were studied in Rutilus frisii kutum spawners during transportation in April, 2006. The fish were held in plastic tanks in two treatments 1fish/2L and 1fish/1L sea water in several replications. Their blood was collected at 0, 10, 20, 30 and 60 min after capture. A significant increase in concentration of cortisol and glucose was found with the transport time. Initial levels of cortisol were similar in the two treatments ranging between 480.7±22.34 and 476.6±18.61 ng/ml respectively. These values increased gradually and reached a peak at the end of the transport (683±1 and 801.3±11.2ng/ml in treatments 1 and 2) with significant difference between the two (P

Overfishing, destruction of spawning grounds together with intensive artificial reproduction and release of Rutilus frisii kutum fingerlings have caused remarkable fluctuations in the stocks of the fish in the Caspian Sea over the past decades. The mean catch size of the fish during periods 1937-1947, 1967-1977 and 1987-1997 were 3110, 990 and 8505 tons respectively. Also the minimum catch was recorded as 121 tons in 1964 and the maximum catch was recorded as 11175 tons in 1994. The catch per unit effort (CPUE) of the species shows high variations such that it has been 17 kg/ton in 1971,216 kg/ton in 1989 and 112 kg/ton in 1999. The decline in CPUE in 1999 was due to increased fishing efforts of 3.8 orders of magnitude (in comparison to the year 1989) as a result of fishing cooperatives increasing in number during that period. The calculated stock biomass of the fish was 1300 tons in 1971 fluctuating between 18489 to 25400 tons in the period 1990-2000. The mean biomass of the fish in the recent past 10 years was 22750 tons which shows 17-fold increase in comparison to the year 1971. The accomplished catch in the recent 10 years has been 35 to 46 % of the annual stock. The exploitation rate being more than MSY and decreased mean weight of the released fingerlings plus lowered return rate might have caused the decrease in the stock size of the fish during 1998-1999.

We used Mercury Analyzer to assess possible correlation between length and weight of the KutumRoach (Rutilus frisii kutum) and mercury accumulation in different tissues of the fish. Wecollected fish specimens from central south Caspian Sea from October to December 2005. After biometrical measurement of samples and sex determination, mercury concentration was assessed in muscle, liver and skin tissues of the specimens. The mean concentration of mercury in muscle, liver and skin tissues was 849.9, 670.9 and 493.7ng/g respectively. Statistical analysis of the results showed a significant difference between mercury amounts in different tissues (P0.05). The mercury amount in muscle of Kutum Roach was lower than permissible limits proposed by FDA (1000 ng/g

To determine the acute toxicity and bioaccumulation of mercuric chloride in Rutilus fidisii kutum, specimens of the fish were exposed to various concentrations of the chemical in water. We carried out ten treatments with three replicates and one control for each of the chemicals using the static 0.E.C.D. method in 55 liter tanks each containing 14 fingerlings. During the experiments, the average pH was recorded as 7.8, total hardness was measured to be 255 mel, average water temperature was 27±1 degrees centigrade and dissolved oxygen was 7.2 mg/l. Mean LC50 values of Hgcli for juvenile R. fish kutum with mean weight 1± 0.2 grams were 0.102 and 0.086 mg HO at 24h and 96h, respectively. The bioaccumulation values during 24h in muscle tissue, kidney and gill were 1.55, 16.1 and 22.7 mg He respectively. The values during 96h exposure were 2.8, 16.8 and 26.65 mg He in tissue, kidney and gill respectively. The bioconcentration values for muscle tissue, kidney and gill during the first 24h w.....

Caspian Kutum (Rutilusfrisii kutum) is one of the most important commercial bony fishes in Iranian coastal waters of the Caspian Sea that constitute more than 50% of the total annual catch of the bony fishes. In the fishing season of 2003-2004, 5 mobile working groups gathered biometry data in the regions Anzali, Kiashar, Noshahr, Babolsar and Torkmen. Catch statistics of bony fishes was gained from fishing and landing harbors. Total catch of the commercial bony fishes was estimated at 15.5 thousand tons from which the Kutum amounted to 8477 tons, 45.5% of the total. Also, catch of the bony fishes of beach seine cooperatives was estimated at 10667 tons where the Caspian Kutum comprised 5180 tons (48.65%). The catch per unit effort (CPUE) of the Caspian Kutum amounted to 93.3 kg/set with the highest value recorded in Noshahr and the lowest amount observed in Anzali and Kiashahr regions. The mean fork length of the species was 36.7±6.1 cm showing a range of 21 to 69 cm. The meanage was measured as 3.82±1.37 years with the range of 1 to 8 years. The age groups 3, 4 and5 years old comprised 87% of the total catch age composition. Von Bertalanffy growth parameters such as L¥ k and t0 were determined as 70.1cm, 0.138/year and -1.557 years, respectively. Total mortality, natural mortality and fishing mortality rates of the species were estimated at 1.1/year, 0.28/year and 0.83/year, respectively (considering a surface water Temperature of 14°C). The biomass of the fish was estimated at 25 thousand tons.

Rutilus frisii kutum is one of the most important and economic fish in our country. Since the passage of time and temperature on the quality of fish caught continuous reduced, so decreasing the temperature by ice storage, immediately after fishing, is a good method to avoid loss of quality fall. In this study change of some quality parameters of R. frisii kutum during ice storage for 16 days such as expressible moisture, pH, thiobarbituric acid, total volatile nitrogen, free fatty acid, psychrotrophic count and total viable count to assessment the effects of delay of putting ice on fish caught and loss in quality product was measured. According to these results, the chemical and bacterial indicators were increased significantly during the storage in ice. Delayed icing caused the higher degree of oxidation. Furthermore, delayed icing, lack of attention to correct method of storage, and ice storage for a long time can decrease the quality of meat. It is better that fish be ice storage after fishing immediately. Shorten the shelf life of the product on the ice and accelerate cooling, helps to increase the shelf life of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Modulation of intestinal microbiota toward potentially beneficial communities (probiotics) positively affects fish physiology and health status. Different prebiotics showed contradictory effects on intestinal microbiota. The present study investigates the effects of different levels of two prebiotics, galacto- and fructooligosaccharide on intestinal microbiota of Caspian roach fry which is a commercially valuable species of Caspian sea. Materials and methods: The study was performed as a randomized design with 5 treatments and 3 replications in which Caspian roach were fed different levels, 0, 1, and 2% of galacto- and fructooligosaccharide prebiotics for 6 weeks. At the end of the trial culture, analysis of intestinal microbiota include lactic acid bacteria levels, total bacteria as well as proportion of LAB were performed by using MRS agar, Plate count agar media. Results: Administration of different levels of galacto- and fructooligosaccharide had no significant effects on total bacteria of intestinal microbiota (P > 0.05). The lactic acid bacteria levels significantly increased compared to control group following prebiotics administration in diet (P > 0.05). LAB levels in galactooligosaccharide treatment were higher than those of fructooligosaccharide treatment. The highest LAB proportion in intestinal microbiota was observed in roach fed diet which contains 2% galactooligosaccharide (P > 0.05). Discussion and conclusion: The results of the present study revealed that prebiotics can be used for modulation of Caspian roach intestinal microbiota toward beneficial bacterial communities. Also, the results showed that galactooligosaccharide was more efficient than fructooligosaccharide in case of modulation of intestinal microbiota and elevation of LAB levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The intestinal microbiota of fish belongs to different species compare to terrestrial animals, mainly Gram-negative bacteria are predominant. Despite importance as probiotic, gram-positive bacteria like Lactobacillus Sp. are minor constitutes of gut microbiota. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of modulation of Kutum intestinal microbiota and elevation of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) levels through administration of yeast based prebiotic. Materials and methods: The study was performed as randomized design with 5 treatments and 3 replications in which kutum were fed different levels, 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 % of yeast based prebiotic for 60 days. At the end of the trial, culture based analysis of intestinal microbiota include lactic acid bacteria levels, total bacteria and obligatory anaerobic bacteria were performed by using MRS, TSA, SPS media. Also, the isolated lactic acid bacteria species were determined by biochemical test. Results: The highest and lowest lactic acid bacteria levels observed in 0.5 % treatment and control treatment, respectively (P value > 0.05). Also, administration of 0.5 % yeast based prebiotic significantly increased total viable bacteria (P value > 0.05). The highest and lowest obligatory anaerobic bacteria were recorded in control and 0.5 and 1 % treatment (P value > 0.05). The biochemical test revealed isolation of three species Lactobacillus plantarum, L. caseie, L. acidophilous in the intestinal microbiota after administration of yeast based prebiotic. Discussion and conclusion: The results of this study determined that administration of 0.5 % yeast based prebiotic significantly modulates the intestinal microbiota of kutum fry toward potentially beneficial communities (i.e LAB). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of current research was to determine hematological and biochemical parameters of captured kutum with gill net and beach seine. A total of 16 matured kutums were used for blood sampling from each device. The result showed significant differences in white blood cells, red blood cell, mean corpuscle volume, Ca, Cl, and cholesterol between gill net and beach seine methods, but there were no significant differences in other parameters. Based on obtained results during our experiment, we concluded that the stress due to capture can influence the blood parameters, and different capture methods lead to different reactions in blood parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Fish and seafood are considered as important sources of high-quality protein, minerals and polyunsaturated fatty acids, but they can contribute significantly to human dietary exposure to environmental pollutants. This study was carried out to assess the concentration of Pb in kutum as the most consumed fish and to determine the estimated daily/weekly intake (EDI/EWI) for comparisons to the tolerable daily/weekly intake (TDI/TWI). Materials and methods: Forty kutums were collected from Bandar Anzali and Roodsar stations, Iran, during January 2012. After preparation and chemical digestion, Pb concentration was determined using Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (SHIMADZU AA/680). Results: The mean accumulated concentrations of Pb in the kutum from Bandar Anzali and Roodsar stations were 2.55 ± 0.54 and 1.66 ± 0.25 mg/kg dry weight, respectively. The observed EDI and EWI of Pb from Bandar Anzali and Roodsar stations were 0.001-0.009 and 0.0009-0.006 mg/kg, respectively. Conclusion: The observed EDI and EWI of Pb in the kutum from Bandar Anzali and Roodsar stations were lower than stipulated guidelines by the FAO/WHO Joint Expert Committee and therefore, were not considered to pose adverse effects to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]