Physiology of cloned diploid and triploid Atlantic salmon
The purpose of this experiment is to investigate the physiology of Atlantic salmon of different genetic makeup. Specifically, we wish to compare cloned lines with standard production lines, cloned lines of different ploidy, and cloned lines subjected to different incubation temperatures. The main method used will be respirometry to measure metabolic rates and responses to hypoxia.
We do not expect any injuries to the fish used in these experiments or any long-term experienced distress. Each fish will experience acute handling stress in the beginning of the trial and acute hypoxia stress at the end of the trial.
This proposed experiment will provide new knowledge with regards to the significance of genetics versus environment on physiological performance in Atlantic salmon. This includes impact of ploidy, phenotypic variation in cloned versus normal groups, influence of early rearing environments on performance later in life, and potential disadvantages of inbred lines. Moreover, the topics of this fundamental research have broader general relevance for other fish species and other animal groups.
We wish to use a total of 80 Atlantic salmon in this experiment.
Regarding the 3R’s: Replacement is not possible as we are investigating whole-animal performances. Reduction has been used to minimize experimental animals used while not compromising the expected statistical robustness of the results. Refinement has been optimized in the experimental protocols by reducing handling time, avoiding multiple stressors simultaneously, and by ensuring that the time fish spend being distressed is minimal owing to rigorous monitoring.
We do not expect any injuries to the fish used in these experiments or any long-term experienced distress. Each fish will experience acute handling stress in the beginning of the trial and acute hypoxia stress at the end of the trial.
This proposed experiment will provide new knowledge with regards to the significance of genetics versus environment on physiological performance in Atlantic salmon. This includes impact of ploidy, phenotypic variation in cloned versus normal groups, influence of early rearing environments on performance later in life, and potential disadvantages of inbred lines. Moreover, the topics of this fundamental research have broader general relevance for other fish species and other animal groups.
We wish to use a total of 80 Atlantic salmon in this experiment.
Regarding the 3R’s: Replacement is not possible as we are investigating whole-animal performances. Reduction has been used to minimize experimental animals used while not compromising the expected statistical robustness of the results. Refinement has been optimized in the experimental protocols by reducing handling time, avoiding multiple stressors simultaneously, and by ensuring that the time fish spend being distressed is minimal owing to rigorous monitoring.