The aquaculture of burbot (Lota lota) in New York

Authors: Haydn Meyers, Elisa Livengood, Quentin White

SUNY Campus: SUNY Morrisville

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: UU 111

Presentation #: 65

Timeslot: Session A 9:00-10:00 AM

Abstract: Burbot (Lota lota) are a species that has great potential for aquaculture both for their conservation and as a food fish. Burbot typically resides in cold freshwater lakes, rivers, and reservoirs in the northern hemisphere. In New York, a few resident populations can be found in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, streams, and tributaries throughout the state, but much of their population throughout the state has seen a steep decline, and there is some consideration to list them as threatened. We are exploring the aquaculture of these fish as burbot has a high potential for market value as a food fish and for conservation aquaculture, as well as studying the compatibility with a northeastern trout culture system. Our goal was to measure the burbot’s growth in both weight and length and the anesthesia dosage required for handling. The dosages of MS-222 (tricaine methanesulfonate) were changed throughout the sample to determine which dosage was most effective for sedating burbot for fish handling and measurement. Fish received in general 0.68 g/gal dosage and sedation behavior was observed and timed. It took 5 minutes for burbot to show signs of sedation. Fish were also weighed and measured to determine the average weight in grams and length in mm which was 397 mm and 454 grams. The behavior of the fish was monitored for the entirety of the sampling process to ensure no mortalities would occur during the procedure. Addressing these challenges is vital for burbot aquaculture's successful and sustainable development.