Content area
Full Text
Abstract - The aim of this study has been to improve the knowledge of the physiological responses of the Atlantic bluefin tuna Thunnus thynnus (Scombridae), under stress and stress-free state conditions caused by the "Mattanza". We investigate plasma lactate, cortisol and glucose as haematological descriptors of stress. The experimental design provides a comparison of indicators Before vs. After the stress state. Results showed a rapid accumulation of cortisol levels, lactate and glucose. Finally we argue on the adoption of good fishing practice and handlings of tuna in the pre- and post-fishing phase, an expedient strategy to get the maximum quality of product in this "niche" fishery, the last active in the Mediterranean.
Key-words: Atlantic bluefin tuna, stress response, trap fishery, Mediterranean Sea.
Introduction - Bluefin tuna is currently considered overexploited (ICCAT, 2007), and has therefore been included in a multiannual recovery plan by ICCAT (and was also recently elected as a candidate to be added to Appendix 1 of the CITES(Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). The Scientific Committee of Research and Statistics (SCRS) of ICCAT has recommended a total allowable catch (TAC) of 13.500 MT for 2010 and 12.900 MT for 2011 in the whole of the Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean.
The adoption of good fishing practices and the adherence to high standards for specimen handling during and following fishing operations is an expedient to obtain the maximum quality of product and market quotation.