Fish Biopsy Standard
Collecting tissue samples from mobile species without capturing or killing these species can be quite
difficult. However, through biopsy, tissue samples can be collected with minimal stress to the
individual species. The use of biopsies for tissue collection is therefore suitable to reduce the
number of animal fatalities required or to reduce the stress that an individual undergoes when
brought on board to remove tissue (Robbins 2006, Evans 2008). Many different methods are used to
collect tissue samples without restraining an individual, however, these are highly species specific
(Evans 2008). The use of a spear-mounted probe appears to be the best method for use on shark
species, although this can be modified to be used on teleost fish species that are larger than 15cm
(Robbins 2006, Evans 2008). This is done by using a spear gun with the probe mounted to the spear;
the spear is then shot at the fish/shark by a diver who is perpendicular to the individual. The most
suitable place for many species is to aim just below the dorsal fin. The use of this method also
reduces the likelihood of catching non-target species. The probes will generally collect enough tissue
to perform both genetic and stable isotope analysis. The use of this method would only be suitable
when the risks associated with diving are appropriately managed and the use of hook and line is not
an effective method to retrieve the required species.
References
Evans, R. (2008). "Assessment of an underwater biopsy probe for collecting teleost fish tissue
samples." Marine Ecology Progress Series 368: 305-308.
Robbins, W. D. (2006). "Evaluation of two underwater biopsy probes for in situ collection of shark
tissue samples." Marine Ecology Progress Series 310: 213-217.