Tagging of age-0 flatfish with acoustic transmitters: comparison of internal implantation versus external attachment.

The selection of a suitable method for tagging fish with transmitters is essential to ensure the feasibility of telemetry studies. Here, using a micro-acoustic transmitter, we examined the effects of tagging methods such as external attachment and surgical implantation on tag retention, and growth and survival of hatchery-reared spotted halibut at the release size (ca. 8–10 cm in total length). Fish with surgical implantation showed higher survival and retention rates than those with external attachments. However, the tagging methods did not influence the growth of the tagged fish. These findings indicated that surgical implantation of acoustic transmitters can be applied to small-sized spotted halibut. Overall, the findings can enhance the study about post-release movement of hatchery-reared fish at the release size to manage and conserve flatfish stocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]