ISSN:
1095-8649
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
A technique is described whereby the electromyogram of the m. adductor mandibulae of brown trout is detected by implanted extracellular electrodes and used as the input signal for an ultrasonic transmitter attached externally to the fish. The periodic electrical activity of the muscle during ventilation is relayed by the transmitter using an analogue pulse system.As the ventilatory electromyogram occurs in discrete rhythmic trains, it follows that alterations to this rhythm can be used to telemeter, instantaneously, single feeding events from a free swimming fish. Laboratory tests have shown that the feeding act is unequivocally distinct electromyographically from other manoeuvres such as ‘coughing’.Four adult brown trout have been equipped with this transmitter system and released in Airthrey Loch, Stirling. Using a tracking facility, feeding activity and ventilatory rhythms have been recorded for extended periods.The results indicate the presence of three daily peaks of feeding activity, which is discussed in relation to changes in light levels. The telemetry records indicate that night feeding is a common occurrence in brown trout. In addition, ventilatory rates were found to be at or near resting levels.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1095-8649.1978.tb03487.x
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