Metabolic rates in an anadromous clupeid, the American shad (Alosa sapidissima)
To assess the energetics of migration in an anadromous fish, adult American shad (Alosa sapidissima) were swum in a large respirometer at a range of speeds (1.0–2.3 body lengths (BL) s−1, 13–24 °C). Metabolic rate (MO2) was logarithmically related to swimming speed (Bl s−1; r2 = 0.41, slope = 0.23 ± 0.037) and tailbeat frequency (beats × min−1; r2 = 0.52, slope = 0.003 ± 0.0003). Temperature had a significant effect on metabolic rate (r2 = 0.41) with a Q10of 2.2. Standard metabolic rate (SMR), determined directly after immobilization with the neuroblocker gallamine triethiodide, ranged from 2.2–6.2 mmolO2 kg−1 h−1 and scaled with mass (W) such that SMR = 4.0 (±0.03)W0.695(±0.15). Comparison of directly determined and extrapolated SMR suggests that swimming respirometry provides a good estimate of SMR in this species, given the differences in basal activity monitored by the two methods. Overall, American shad metabolic rates (MO2 and SMR) were intermediate between salmonids and fast-swimming perciforms, including tunas, and may be a result of evolutionary adaptation to their active pelagic, schooling life history. This study demonstrates variability in metabolic strategy among anadromous fishes that may be important to understanding the relative success of different migratory species under varying environmental conditions.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1999 |
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Title | Metabolic rates in an anadromous clupeid, the American shad (Alosa sapidissima) |
DOI | 10.1007/s003600050223 |
Authors | J. B. K. Leonard, J.F. Norieka, B. Kynard, S. D. McCormick |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Journal of Comparative Physiology B: Biochemical, Systemic, and Environmental Physiology |
Index ID | 70021461 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Leetown Science Center |