Development of an ovarian biopsy technique in the sea bass, Lates calcarifer (Bloch).

Abstract

A convenient and rapid biopsy method for taking ovarian samples from mature sea bass (Lates calcarifer Bloch) is described. Intra-ovarian oocytes siphoned with polyethylene tubing from any region of the ovary provide a sample representative of the maturational stage of sea bass. The osmolality of a 5% phosphate buffered formalin solution is similar to that of sea bass plasma. The follicular diameter of cannulated sea bass oocytes can be measured within an hour after fixation in 5% phosphate buffered formalin without significantly deviating from the diameter of fresh oocytes.