Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences

Other Contacts: Elizabeth Moreau

This circular represents a summary of current knowledge on aquatic plants and aquatic plant management strategies, highlighting the Florida situation. The major focus of this circular is the management of aquatic plants as opposed to dealing with nutrients, algae, or water clarity. Included are sections on 1) Aquatic Plant Biology, 2) Aquatic Plant Management Problems, and 3) Aquatic Plant Management Techniques.

Mark Hoyer
Other Contacts: Elizabeth Moreau

A UF/IFAS numbered peer reviewed Fact Sheet. Published by Environmental Literacy and Sustainability

Florida LAKEWATCH

This circular represents a summary of current knowledge on aquatic plants and aquatic plant management strategies, highlighting the Florida situation. The major focus of this circular is the management of aquatic plants as opposed to dealing with nutrients, algae, or water clarity. Included are sections on aquatic plant biology, aquatic plant management problems, and aquatic plant management techniques.

Mark Hoyer, Daniel E. Canfield, andMark Brenner
Other Contacts: Elizabeth Moreau

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. Published by Urban Water

Mark Hoyer
Other Contacts: Elizabeth Moreau

Nutrients are substances required by all organisms for growth, and they are found in every aquatic system. Nutrients are also the object of much discussion by lake management professionals and the general public who are concerned about the influence nutrients sometimes have on the growth of algae and/or aquatic plants in lakes. Written for the lay public, this information circular is an ideal reference booklet for students and/or professionals interested in water management. First published Aug. 2000.

Other Contacts: Elizabeth Moreau

This document is the first in a series of Information Circulars developed by the LAKEWATCH Program. It is an introduction to the basic terminology and concepts used in the water management arena. First published Aug. 2000

Charles Barrett, Lisa Krimsky, Andrea Albertin, James Fletcher, andMary G. Lusk

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. Published by ==Water==

Joseph Henry, Roy P. E. Yanong, Maia McGuire, andJoshua T. Patterson

Analisa Duran, Ruth Frances-Floyd, Maia Patterson Mcguire, and Iskande Larkin

Florida’s coastline provides critical habitat for sea turtle nesting, as it has for millions of years. Throughout the state, three of the seven species of sea turtles in the world have significant nesting populations. Loggerhead, green, and leatherback sea turtles use Florida’s beaches to lay nests each year. This publication provides information on the identification, nesting characteristics, and abundance of each of the common sea turtle species who nest in Florida.

Frank A. Chapman

Ruth Francis-Floyd, Craig Watson, Denise Petty, and Deborah B. Pouder

Management of ammonia, the primary waste product of fish, is critical to fish health, especially in intensive systems. At low concentrations, ammonia causes stress and damages gills and other tissues. Fish exposed to low levels of ammonia over time are more susceptible to bacterial infections, have poor growth, and do not tolerate routine handling well. At higher concentrations, it will kill fish. Many unexplained production losses have likely been caused by ammonia.

Ruth Francis-Floyd, Craig Watson, Denise Petty y Deborah B. Pouder.

De todos los parámetros de calidad de agua que afectana los peces, el amonio es el más importante después del oxígeno, especialmente en sistemas de cultivo intensivo. Aún en bajas concentraciones, el amonio provoca estrés y daña las branquias y otros tejidos de los peces. Los peces expuestos a niveles bajos de amonio a lo largo de un tiempo son más susceptibles a las infecciones bacterianas, presentan un crecimiento deficiente y no toleran el manejo de rutina tan bien como los peces cultivados en agua libre de amonio. En concentraciones altas, el amonio matará a los peces, y es probable que muchas pérdidas de producción inexplicables hayan sido causadas por amonio disuelto en el agua.

Edward Camp, Zachary Siders, Andrew Ropicki, and Frank Asche

Managing recreational fisheries requires balancing sustainability against allowing as much access and harvest as possible. Maintaining sustainability is made harder by discard mortality where any fishing activity, even catch and release, risks fish dying from injuries, predation, or other causes. This is especially a problem for Florida reef fish species that live at depths and habitats where barotrauma increases mortality and depredation by larger fish, sharks, or marine mammals increases it further. Harvest (or trip) tags could reduce overharvest, lower discard mortality, and allow anglers more freedom to choose when to fish. Harvest tags would limit the total fish harvested, but could eliminate one of the least popular current management restrictions, harvest seasons. This publication describes harvest tag approaches, discussing how they are already used in fishing and hunting and describing some of the potential benefits and costs if they were applied in Florida.

Edward V. Camp, Lawrence Jackson, Angela B. Collins, Holly Abeels, Michael J. Sipos, Brittany J. Scharf, Ana Zangroniz, Shelly L. Krueger, andVictor J. Blanco Marquez

Popular marine habitat enhancements, artificial reefs can benefit sea life and humans. Floridians visit them every year to fish, dive, snorkel, or boat around. The number of artificial reefs is growing around Florida, but their function and impact are difficult to describe because artificial reefs change over time as they become encrusted with fouling organisms or altered by storms and shifting sands. As reefs change, expectations shift, and advances in research and monitoring allow us to learn more about them. This publication provides an update of Florida’s recent artificial reef activities. It focuses on new deployments, designs, and monitoring objectives from 2015 to 2021. It should help management agencies and outreach and education professionals understand recent trends in priorities. Fishing and diving clubs, monitoring programs, local artificial reef planners and coordinators, and other stakeholders can discover and share information learned across counties.

Lawrence Jackson, Edward V. Camp, Angela B. Collins, Holly Abeels, Michael J. Sipos, Brittany J. Scharf, Ana Zangroniz, Shelly L. Krueger, andVictor J. Blanco Marquez

As coastal managers and practitioners continue placing artificial reefs in marine waters, the scientific understanding of the effects and implications of artificial reefs is changing. It is especially important for resource managers and Extension and outreach personnel, as well as the interested public, to keep aware of these changes as they occur, but usually scientific studies are first published in peer-reviewed journals that may be inaccessible. This publication describes some of the most recent artificial reef studies that are likely to be especially relevant to Florida. Each is summarized and its potential relevance to Florida described. This is not a complete record of recent research, but it should help the interested public, managers, educators, and outreach personnel stay informed of recent developments in artificial reef science that should be considered when making decisions about artificial reefs.

Jesse Von Linden, Joshua T. Patterson, Cortney L. Ohs, and Matthew A. DiMaggio

Joshua T. Patterson, Cortney L. Ohs, andMatthew A. DiMaggio

Natalie Steckler andRoy P. E. Yanong

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. Published by Animal Systems

Lisa Chong, Keith Mille, Holly Abeels, Victor Blanco, and Edward V. Camp

Artificial reefs are constructed to provide several important ecosystem services to coastal communities and fisheries around the world, and their deployment results in significant socio-ecological and economic effects.

Lisa Chong, Angela B. Collins, Holly Abeels, Anna Braswell, Ana Zangroniz, Andrew Ropicki, Scott Jackson, and Edward V. Camp

Increasingly, coastal managers are placing artificial reefs in marine waters. These long-lasting habitat alterations have measurable effects on fish, fishers, divers, fisheries, and marine social ecological systems. Understanding how artificial reefs function is necessary to make good decisions about future artificial reefs. Scientific research on many aspects of artificial reefs is not always summarized and explained. In response to this need, we designed a 4-part series called Artificial Reefs 101. This publication, part 2 of the Artificial Reefs series, explains how artificial reefs affect fish populations. It will help the interested public understand more about the ecological effects of artificial reefs and provide detailed information to stakeholders including management agencies, local governments, artificial reef manufacturers, and Extension agents, to allow for better-informed decisions about building and managing artificial reefs.

Angela B. Collins, Holly Abeels, Anna Braswell, Andrew Ropicki, andEdward V. Camp

Increasingly, coastal managers are placing artificial reefs in marine waters. These long-lasting habitat alterations have measurable effects on fish, fishers, divers, fisheries, and marine social ecological systems. Understanding how artificial reefs function is necessary to make good decisions about future artificial reefs. Scientific research on many aspects of artificial reefs is not always summarized and explained. In response to this need, we designed a 4-part series called Artificial Reefs 101. This publication, part 4 of the Artificial Reefs series, explores a complicated but fascinating aspect of artificial reefs—should we expect them to lead to better fishing in the long run? Many people think artificial reefs should be a “win-win” since both fish and fishers seem to like them. But it is increasingly apparent that they are likely to increase fishing mortality more than they increase fish populations. So they could lead to more restrictive regulations.

Lisa Chong, Angela B. Collins, Holly Abeels, Anna Braswell, Andrew Ropicki, Scott Jackson, and Edward V. Camp

Increasingly, coastal managers are placing artificial reefs in marine waters. These long-lasting habitat alterations have measurable effects on fish, fishers, divers, fisheries, and marine social ecological systems. Understanding how artificial reefs function is necessary to make good decisions about future artificial reefs. Scientific research on many aspects of artificial reefs is not always summarized and explained. In response to this need, we designed a 4-part series called Artificial Reefs 101. This publication, Part 1 of the Artificial Reefs 101 series, explains why artificial reefs are built. It defines what artificial reefs are and explains why people build and deploy artificial reefs. It should help the interested public understand how artificial reefs affect marine resources, and provide a background and baseline of information for decision-makers such as local officials, management agency personnel, and Extension agents.

Lawrence Jackson, Angela B. Collins, Holly Abeels, Anna Braswell, Ana Zangroniz, Andrew Ropicki, andEdward V. Camp

Increasingly, coastal managers are placing artificial reefs in marine waters. These long-lasting habitat alterations have measurable effects on fish, fishers, divers, fisheries, and marine social ecological systems. Understanding how artificial reefs function is necessary to make good decisions about future artificial reefs. Scientific research on many aspects of artificial reefs is not always summarized and explained. In response to this need, we designed a 4-part series called Artificial Reefs 101. This publication, part 3 of the Artificial Reefs series, explains how artificial reefs affect fishers and divers. It will help the interested public understand more about the ecological effects of artificial reefs and provide detailed information to stakeholders including management agencies, local governments, artificial reef manufacturers, and Extension agents, to allow for better-informed decisions about building and managing artificial reefs.

John S. Hargrove and James D. Austin

Its rapid growth, large maximum size, and acrobatic fighting displays have made Florida bass the most popular freshwater sport fish in the state of Florida

Victor J. Blanco Marquez, Cortney L. Ohs, Nicole Rhody, andRonald Hans

Almaco jack, Seriola rivoliana, is a perciform within the order Perciformes, family Carangidae; which includes jacks and pompanos. They are members of the genus Seriola, a species of interest for aquaculture diversification worldwide. Like other commercially farmed Seriola species, almaco jack (also known as longfin yellowtail and kampachi) are fast growers, have a high market value, and are increasingly well-regarded among chefs for their versatility in both cooked and raw preparations. These characteristics, among others, have made them favorable candidates for both land-based and offshore aquaculture.

Lena A. Donnarumma, Brittany J. Scharf, Jeffrey E. Hill, andCortney L. Ohs

The American horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus, is a member of the phylum Arthropoda, subphylum Chelicerata, and class Merostomata. Although there are four horseshoe crab species worldwide, the American horseshoe crab is primarily found in the Atlantic Ocean along the East Coast of North America. The species ranges from Maine to Mexico, but is absent between Texas in the United States and Tabasco in Mexico. They mainly inhabit estuarine areas; however, juveniles and adults can venture into the shallow oceanic environments. Embryo development occurs in the intertidal zone of sandy beaches. Sandy or muddy bottom habitats are necessary for burrowing and benthic feeding. This publication will cover their natural history, aquaculture techniques, common diseases, and their uses and markets.  

Cortney L. Ohs, Jeffrey E. Hill, Sarah E. Wright, H. Mae Giddings, and Allison L. Durland Donahou

Arapaima Arapaima gigas, also known as paiche and pirarucu, is a large South American freshwater fish with unique biology, favorable aquaculture characteristics, and potential for production in south Florida. This publication provides Arapaima gigas biology, specific culture methods known for each stage of development, and information about diseases and parasites, markets, and the laws associated with this species to potential Florida producers.

R. LeRoy Creswell, Cortney L. Ohs, and Christian L. Miller

Christian L. Miller, Cortney L. Ohs, and R. LeRoy Creswell

E. J. Livengood, C. L. Ohs, and F. A. Chapman

Cortney L. Ohs and R. LeRoy Creswell

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. Published by Aquaculture

Joshua T. Patterson, Cortney L. Ohs, andMatthew A. DiMaggio

Cortney L. Ohs, Christian L. Miller, andR. LeRoy Creswell

This publication describes these crosses between striped bass and white bass, commonly called sunshine bass and palmetto bass — geographical distribution and habitat, phases of production, pond, cage, and tank production, feeding, water quality, and marketing.

Eric J. Cassiano, Cortney L. Ohs, and Jeff E. Hill

Cortney L. Ohs, Scott W. Grabe, and Matthew A. DiMaggio

Kevin P. Barden, Matthew L. Wittenrich, and Eric J. Cassiano

Eric Cassiano and Kevin Barden

Cortney L. Ohs, Eric J. Cassiano, andAdelaide Rhodes

This publication discusses the pros and cons of using rotifers, brine shrimp, and copepods as live food for marine fish larvae.

Deborah B. Pouder, Eric W. Curtis, andRoy P. E. Yanong

This publication is one in a series of pictorial guides that is designed to assist in the identification of common freshwater fish parasites. The information provided in this guide is not intended to be a complete, detailed description of each parasite or parasite group and its characteristics but rather is intended to assist in the visual identification of some of the most common species or groups of parasites seen in freshwater fish. For further information on each parasite, refer to publications in the “Recommended Reading” and “Reference” sections.

Deborah B. Pouder, Eric W. Curtis, andRoy P. E. Yanong

This publication is one in a series of pictorial guides that is designed to assist in the identification of common freshwater fish parasites. The information provided in this guide is not intended to be a complete, detailed description of each parasite or parasite group and its characteristics but rather is intended to assist in the visual identification of some of the most common species or groups of parasites seen in freshwater fish. For further information on each parasite, refer to publications in the “Recommended Reading” and “Reference” sections. 

Deborah B. Pouder, Eric W. Curtis, andRoy P. E. Yanong

This publication is one in a series of pictorial guides that is designed to assist in the identification of common freshwater fish parasites. The information provided in this guide is not intended to be a complete, detailed description of each parasite or parasite group and its characteristics but rather is intended to assist in the visual identification of some of the most common species or groups of parasites seen in freshwater fish. For further information on each parasite, refer to publications in the “Recommended Reading” and “Reference” sections.

Deborah B. Pouder, Eric W. Curtis, andRoy P. E. Yanong

This publication is one in a series of pictorial guides that is designed to assist in the identification of common freshwater fish parasites. The information provided in this guide is not intended to be a complete, detailed description of each parasite or parasite group and its characteristics but rather is intended to assist in the visual identification of some of the most common species or groups of parasites seen in freshwater fish. For further information on each parasite, refer to publications in the “Recommended Reading” and “Reference” sections.

Deborah B. Pouder, Eric W. Curtis, andRoy P. E. Yanong

This publication is one in a series of pictorial guides that is designed to assist in the identification of common freshwater fish parasites. The information provided in this guide is not intended to be a complete, detailed description of each parasite or parasite group and its characteristics but rather is intended to assist in the visual identification of some of the most common species or groups of parasites seen in freshwater fish. For further information on each parasite, refer to publications in the “Recommended Reading” and “Reference” sections. 

Deborah B. Pouder, Eric W. Curtis, andRoy P. E. Yanong

This publication is one in a series of pictorial guides that is designed to assist in the identification of common freshwater fish parasites. The information provided in this guide is not intended to be a complete, detailed description of each parasite or parasite group and its characteristics but rather is intended to assist in the visual identification of some of the most common species or groups of parasites seen in freshwater fish. For further information on each parasite, refer to publications in the “Recommended Reading” and “Reference” sections.

Deborah B. Pouder, Eric W. Curtis, andRoy P. E. Yanong

This publication is one in a series of pictorial guides that is designed to assist in the identification of common freshwater fish parasites. The information provided in this guide is not intended to be a complete, detailed description of each parasite or parasite group and its characteristics but rather is intended to assist in the visual identification of some of the most common species or groups of parasites seen in freshwater fish. For further information on each parasite, refer to publications in the “Recommended Reading” and “Reference” sections. 

Deborah B. Pouder, Eric W. Curtis, andRoy P. E. Yanong

This publication is one in a series of pictorial guides that is designed to assist in the identification of common freshwater fish parasites. The information provided in this guide is not intended to be a complete, detailed description of each parasite or parasite group and its characteristics but rather is intended to assist in the visual identification of some of the most common species or groups of parasites seen in freshwater fish. For further information on each parasite, refer to publications in the “Recommended Reading” and “Reference” sections.

Deborah B. Pouder, Eric W. Curtis, andRoy P. E. Yanong

This publication is one in a series of pictorial guides that is designed to assist in the identification of common freshwater fish parasites. The information provided in this guide is not intended to be a complete, detailed description of each parasite or parasite group and its characteristics but rather is intended to assist in the visual identification of some of the most common species or groups of parasites seen in freshwater fish. For further information on each parasite, refer to publications in the “Recommended Reading” and “Reference” sections.

P. A. Fowler, R. A. Bucklin, C. D. Baird, F. A. Chapman, and C. A. Watson

Huiping Yang and Terrence R. Tiersch

Kathryn E. Lohr and Joshua T. Patterson

Ruth Francis Floyd and Roy Yanong

After many years of diagnostics at the University of Florida and at other laboratories around the country, it appears that Cryptobia iubilans is not uncommon among cichlids, and that environmental and other factors determine the extent of disease.

Roy P. E. Yanong

Frank A. Chapman

This document is about Tilapia, which is a generic term used to designate a group of commercially important food fish belonging to the family Cichlidae; the expression is derived from the African native Bechuana word "thiape," meaning fish. Cichlids are classified in the large order Perciformes, and inhabit the fresh and brackish waters of Africa, the Middle East, coastal India, Central and South America. True tilapias, however, are native only to Africa and the Middle East. Although exotic to the United States, populations of tilapia are now established in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, and Texas. First published July, 1992.

R. W. Rottmann, J. Scott Graves, Craig Watson, and Roy P. E. Yanong

This document provides an extensive overview of the biology, culture methods, and practical applications of Daphnia, specifically focusing on the genera Daphnia and Moina. Daphnia, known as "water fleas" due to their size and distinctive movement, play a crucial role in freshwater ecosystems and aquaculture. The document discusses their physical and chemical habitat requirements, food sources, and reproductive cycles. It highlights the advantages of Moina in aquaculture due to their high reproductive rates and tolerance to environmental conditions. Detailed procedures for the culture of Moina, including container specifications, water quality management, aeration, feeding, and harvesting techniques, are provided. Additionally, the document addresses nutritional aspects and methods for long-term storage. This comprehensive guide aims to support hobbyists and commercial operators in optimizing Moina production for feeding fish fry. First published May,1992.

Emily Caffrey, Joshua Patterson, Ruth Francis-Floyd, and Roy P. E. Yanong

<p>This publication provides information on the status of oyster fisheries and aquaculture in Florida as well as general information about how oysters are grown in agricultural and restoration systems. It then introduces a series of technologies that have been developed in other US states and in other countries, strategies that may have utility in Florida. Finally, it covers some specifics of the permitting process as it relates to oyster aquaculture in Florida.</p>

Craig Watson and Roy P.E. Yanong

Brine shrimp eggs, essential for feeding small fish in hatcheries, require separation from their non-digestible shells and unhatched eggs post-hatching. This document explains the decapsulation process using chlorine removing the outer shell, simplifying separation and sterilizing the eggs. This method improves hatch rates and allows unhatched eggs to be fed directly to fish. The decapsulation procedure involves soaking the eggs in water, treating them with bleach, and rinsing thoroughly. Decapsulated eggs can be stored in brine or hatched immediately in containers with specific conditions. This process adapts to various brine shrimp egg types, ensuring effective hatchery operations. First published June, 1990. 

Cortney L. Ohs, John Marcellus, Eric J. Cassiano, andJason Broach

A significant limitation in developing aquaculture protocols for marine fish species is an adequate understanding of viable egg production and larval development. The first step in that process is to efficiently collect fertilized embryos, usually referred to as eggs, for examination and further development. This fact sheet includes directions for construction and operation of two types of pelagic egg collectors: pre-filter and floating airlift.

Huiping Yang andJayme C. Yee

The goal of this study was to develop a rapid assessment of microalgal concentration using a turbidity meter to serve commercial shellfish hatcheries for feeding shellfish larvae and broodstock. We used four commonly used algal species, Tetraselmis suecica, Isochrysis galbana, Chaetoceros calcitrans, and Chaetoceros gracilis, generating serial dilutions of each and measuring cell concentrations and turbidity of each sample. We identified linear correlations between cell concentration and turbidity and established standard equations between cell concentration and turbidity for each species. We sampled and quantified algae from a shellfish hatchery using these equations and compared hemocytometer counts. No differences were found (P = 0.174), indicating the accuracy of the equations. We expect that this method can provide a quick, accurate, easy method for shellfish hatcheries to quantify algal concentration and avoid either over- or underfeeding larvae and broodstock. 

Ruth Francis-Floyd

This document is about dissolved oxygen (DO). DO refers to oxygen gas that is dissolved in water. Fish "breathe" oxygen just as land animals do. However, fish are able to absorb oxygen directly from the water into their bloodstream using gills, whereas land animals use lungs to absorb oxygen from the atmosphere. First published in 1992.

Eric Jon Cassiano, Jeffrey Hill, Quenton Tuckett, and Craig Watson

Gabrielle Love, Anna Braswell, Angela B. Collins, and Edward Camp

Florida is experiencing many human and climate-related changes to the aquatic environment that can affect fish. Lost or altered habitat, for instance, can lead to changes in fish populations that may impact survival, growth, or recruitment of those populations. Recruitment influences how many adult fish are later available for spawning and continuing the population. Understanding recruitment and how it is affected by ecological influences is important for considering the potential effects of ongoing climate change, as well as restoration and management of water quality and habitat. This publication provides background information useful to anyone interested in understanding more about factors affecting fish populations and should be especially useful to Extension agents and management agency personnel who would like an overview of these topics before engaging with stakeholders.

Jordan Neff, Eric Cassiano, Micah Alo, and Craig Watson

The energy consumption on aquaculture facilities can account for a large portion of on-farm operational costs. Energy associated with keeping aquatic plants and animals alive contributes to the total cost of operation.  Even on a moderately sized farm, excessive energy consumption can be a limiting factor in the success of an aquaculture business. When recirculating aquaculture systems and indoor climate-controlled production methods are used, the cost of energy can be as large as the costs associated with labor and feed. Evaluating energy use on a facility allows for the opportunity to identify areas where energy may be used more efficiently. Increasing energy efficiency can help reduce overall operational costs and increase profitability. This publication is one in a series that details techniques and methods for reducing energy consumption on aquaculture farms.

Craig A. Watson, Matthew A. DiMaggio, Jeffrey E. Hill, Quenton Tuckett, andRoy P. E. Yanong

Frank A. Chapman

This document is about Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus). Channel catfish belong to the family Ictaluridae, in the large catfish order Siluriformes. The order includes over two thousand species, and most of them inhabit the fresh waters of the tropics. In the United States, the family Ictaluridae is native to the water drainages east of the Rocky Mountains, and contains about forty-three recognized species. Other important commercial species in the family include the blue catfish (I. furcatus), white catfish I. catus), yellow bullhead (I. natalis), brown bullhead (I. nebulosus), black bullhead (I.melas), and the flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris). First published in July, 1992.

Craig Watson and Charles E. Cichra

This document outlines the principles and practices of fertilizing freshwater fish ponds to enhance their productivity. Fertilization, akin to its use in land-based agriculture, can significantly boost the production of small natural food-consuming fish species such as bluegill and golden shiner by increasing the availability of algae and zooplankton. This process not only supports small fish but also benefits larger predatory fish, like largemouth bass, by improving their food supply. Phosphorus is identified as the most critical nutrient, often supplemented with nitrogen for better results. The document discusses the forms and application methods of fertilizers, emphasizing liquid fertilizers for their rapid effectiveness. Practical guidelines for determining the timing and frequency of fertilization based on water temperature and clarity are provided, alongside techniques for applying both liquid and granular fertilizers efficiently. The document also addresses common challenges suc

Michael McGee and Charles Cichra

Finding a source of fish fingerlings (young fish) is the first step towards successful fish production. Following that, transporting the fish, and proper stocking procedures are necessary. Some of the most important considerations relating to fingerling purchasing, transporting, and stocking are reviewed in this document. First published June, 1991

Roy P. E. Yanong

Recirculating aquaculture systems, also known as water reuse systems, are commonly found in aquaculture production facilities, public aquaria, tropical fish wholesale operations, and retail pet stores. When properly managed, these systems have the advantages of both reducing overall water usage, as compared to flow-through systems, and improving control of many aspects of nutrition and water quality, as compared to pond systems. However, recirculating systems have their own unique set of problems. They are not a substitute forgood management and often require more time and care than flow-through systems. They certainly are not a “silver-bullet” for eliminating fish diseases. In addition, defining the primary intended use of a system will help optimize efficiency and utility in the design process. This series of circulars – Fish Health Management Considerations in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems: Parts 1, 2 and 3 – provides basic information that should assist the beginning- or interm

Roy P. E. Yanong

Roy P. E. Yanong

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. Published by Aquaculture

Ruth Francis-Floyd

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for Commercial audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Aquaculture

Edward V. Camp, Robert N.M. Ahrens, Angela B. Collins, and Kai Lorenzen

A good understanding of stock recruit relationships is essential for accurate stock assessment and good fisheries management. But the concept is complicated and can be difficult to understand. This publication uses a recent Florida spotted seatrout stock assessment as an example to show how the stock-recruit relationship allows managers to determine whether or not a given fish population is overfished.

Edward V. Camp, Robert N. M. Ahrens, Angela B. Collins, and Kai Lorenzen

Eric J. Cassiano and Lyn A. Gettys

Florida has a unique and diverse aquaculture industry consisting of ornamental fish, food fish, shellfish, alligators, aquatic plants, and more. Although some aquatic plants are produced for food or wetland restoration, most aquatic plant production in Florida is for the water garden and aquarium industries. There are over 1000 different species and varieties of ornamental aquatic plants produced in Florida. Since most ornamental aquatic plants are tropical in origin, Florida’s warm climate makes it ideal for growing them year-round. This publication covers ornamental aquatic plant production in Florida including permitting and licensing, production techniques, farm design, pests and diseases, and marketing. 

Jeffrey E. Hill andRoy P. E. Yanong

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Animal Systems Fish can be grouped in a number of different ways. One major division in the industry which has practical significance is that between egg-laying species and live-bearing species. The culture practices for each division are different, requiring specialized knowledge and equipment to succeed. This publication briefly reviews the more common groups of freshwater tropical ornamental fishes cultured in Florida. For simplicity, fish are grouped according to family or related families. First published March 2002. 

Tina C. Crosby, Jeffrey E. Hill, Carlos V. Martinez, Craig A. Watson, Deborah B. Pouder, and Roy P.E. Yanong

Emma N. I. Weeks andJeffrey E. Hill

This article focuses on the Asian grass carp. The carp is a generalist herbivore of aquatic plants. It was imported for biological control of hydrilla and is usedextensively for aquatic plant management throughout the U.S.

Tina C. Crosby, Jeffrey E. Hill, Carlos V. Martinez, Craig A. Watson, Deborah B. Pouder, and Roy P.E. Yanong

Charles Wallace, Anna Braswell, Mysha Clarke, Andrew Ropicki, Tara Wade, Frank Asche, Ashley Smyth, Armando Ubeda, and Ed Camp

This publication describes some of the ways to measure ecosystem services and explains how the different approaches to assess ecosystems might be selected, depending on what is most important to the user.

F. A. Chapman and R. D. Miles

Nicholas Fisch, Diana Perry, Chelsey Crandall, Nick Trippel, and Edward V. Camp

Stock enhancement or “stocking” is one of the oldest, most common, and most popular ways of improving recreational fisheries. Stocking is usually supposed to increase the number of fish available for anglers to catch. Unfortunately, stocking doesn’t always do this. The reasons why it may not always work as planned relate to some important concepts of fish ecology. This publication describes those ecological concepts and then also describes the three primary “outcomes” of stocking that anglers might observe. In the end, stocking can be very effective, but only if the stocked fish survive reasonably well and don’t decrease the population of wild fish.

Edward V. Camp, Rick Stout, Nick Trippel, Jon Fury, Stasey Whichel, and Kai Lorenzen

Ruth Francis-Floyd, Roy P. E. Yanong, andDeborah B. Pouder

Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ich) is a protozoan parasite that can cause severe losses in aquaculture and aquariums. It can be introduced via new fish, substrates, plants, or equipment. Preventive measures include quarantining and treating new fish, holding plants without fish, and disinfecting decorations. Ich can cause rapid, high mortality among fish. Immediate treatment is necessary due to its fast reproduction. Since only the infective theront stage is susceptible to treatment, repeated treatments or prolonged salt use are required. Daily tank cleaning during treatment helps remove the parasite. Survivors can carry the parasite and reinfect others. This document is about how effective management and biosecurity practices, including quick treatment and multiple treatments during outbreaks, can help to control Ich and minimize economic losses. First published March 1991.

Huiping Yang, Ximing Guo, and John Scarpa

Frank A. Chapman and Richard Miles

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet.

Ruth Francis-Floyd y Juan Manuel Campos Krauer

El manejo de la salud de los peces es un término utilizado en acuicultura para describir las prácticas de manejo que están diseñadas para prevenir las enfermedades de los peces. Una vez que los peces se enferman, puede ser difícil salvarlos. El manejo exitoso de la salud de los peces comienza con la prevención de las enfermedades, en lugar de aplicar un tratamiento. La prevención de las enfermedades de los peces se logra mediante un buen control de la calidad del agua, nutrición y saneamiento. Sin esta base, es imposible prevenir brotes de enfermedades que son oportunistas.

Ruth Francis-Floyd, Natalie K. Stilwell, andRoy P. E. Yanong

Successful fish health management begins with prevention of disease rather than treatment. Prevention of fish disease is accomplished through good water quality management, nutrition, and sanitation. Without this foundation it is impossible to prevent outbreaks of opportunistic diseases. The fish is constantly bathed in potential pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Even use of sterilization technology (i.e., ultraviolet sterilizers, ozonation) does not eliminate all potential pathogens from the environment. Suboptimal water quality, poor nutrition, or immune system suppression generally associated with stressful conditions allow these potential pathogens to cause disease. Medications used to treat these diseases provide a means of buying time for fish and enabling them to overcome opportunistic infections, but are no substitute for proper animal husbandry. 

Shirley Baker, Denise Petty, Ruth Francis-Floyd, Roy P. E. Yanong, andLeslie Sturmer

Familiarizes clam growers with common clam diseases. Includes glossary of terms and resources for further reading..

Denise Petty, Kathleen H. Hartman, Roy P. E. Yanong, Deborah B. Pouder, Ruth Francis-Floyd, andThomas B. Waltzek

Koi herpesvirus (KHV) is a highly contagious virus that causes significant morbidity and mortality in common carp varieties. Common carp is raised as a foodfish in many countries and has also been selectively bred for the ornamental fish industry where it is known as koi. The first recognized case of KHV occurred in the United Kingdom in 1996. Since then other cases have been confirmed in almost all countries that culture koi and/or common carp with the exception of Australia. This fact sheet is intended to inform veterinarians, biologists, fish producers and hobbyists about KHV disease.

Natalie Steckler and Roy P. E. Yanong

Brittany Hall-Scharf and Victor Blanco

Recreational scalloping is a popular summertime activity that attracts participants from far and wide to Florida's Gulf Coast. Coastal counties that serve as vessel launch points rely on this fishery for economic viability, but the biology of the bay scallop and the environmental stressors this species endures have led to limited populations of bay scallops remaining along Florida's Gulf Coast . Therefore, it is essential to implement best practices for harvesting bay scallops so that future generations can enjoy this marine resource activity. This publication gives recreational scallopers tips on how to sort through scallops in the water so that scallops that are too small are returned immediately to the same spot where they were taken. Improving harvesting techniques can help sustain this valuable fishery.

Roy P. E. Yanong

Lymphocystis is a chronic disease of freshwater and marine fishes caused by infection with an iridovirus known as Lymphocystivirus or Lymphocystis disease virus (LCDV), which is a member of the family Iridoviridae. Infection results in the development of pebble or wart-like nodules most commonly seen on the fins, skin, or gills, although other tissues may be affected. Although the disease has been seen worldwide in numerous species since its first description in 1874, its viral cause was not identified until 1962. The lymphocystiviruses are considered much less pathogenic (disease-causing) than their iridoviral relatives, the ranaviruses and megalocytiviruses, which can cause severe, systemic disease with higher mortalities.

Charles E. Cichra

Bethany J. Lee, Alyssa Vinson, Armando Ubeda, Savanna Barry, andAnna Braswell

Mangroves are salt-tolerant coastal trees that sequester carbon, filter water, act as buffers from storms, and provide habitat for wildlife. In Florida, three native species—Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove), Avicennia germinans (black mangrove), and Laguncularia racemosa (white mangrove)—each with unique adaptations to salinity and hydrology, thrive along distinct zones of the intertidal gradient. As mangrove ecosystems migrate northward with climate change, their ecological value and economic value grow. But they face growing threats from development, pollution, and mismanagement. Improper trimming practices can harm mangroves' health and resilience, especially along developed coastlines. This publication aims to educate landowners, property managers, and the public on the ecological importance of mangroves, while providing best practices for responsible trimming and long-term preservation.

Roy P. E. Yanong and Thomas B. Waltzek

This document is about megalocytiviruses, a group of fish viruses in the family Iridoviridae, which cause systemic infections in various freshwater and marine fish species1. It details the disease symptoms, diagnostic methods, and management practices for infected fish. The document also highlights the susceptibility of different fish species to these viruses and the importance of biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of infections. Additionally, it discusses the lack of effective treatments and the necessity of good husbandry practices to mitigate the impact of these viruses. First published Dec. 2010.

Shane W. Ramee, Taylor N. Lipscomb, andMatthew A. DiMaggio

Huiping Yang, Leslie N. Sturmer, and Shirley Baker

Ruth Francis-Floyd, RuthEllen Klinger, Denise Petty, and Deborah Pouder

Monogeneans are a class of parasitic flatworms that are commonly found on fishes and lower aquatic invertebrates. Most monogeneans are browsers that move about freely on the fish’s body surface feeding on mucus and epithelial cells of the skin and gills; however, a few adult monogeneans will remain permanently attached to a single site on the host. Some monogenean species invade the rectal cavity, ureter, body cavity, and even the blood vascular system. Between 4,000 and 5,000 species of monogeneans have been described. They are found on fishes in fresh and saltwater, and in a wide range of water temperatures.

Justin Stilwell and Roy P. E. Yanong

Discusses myxozoans--metazoan parasites of marine and freshwater invertebrates and fishes. Provides examples of species that infect aquariumand warmwater species; morphology; general life cycle and transmission; methods for diagnosing infections in fish; and advice for treatment, prevention, and control.

Roy P. E. Yanong

Joshua Patterson and Lisa Krimsky