Hematological parameters and phagocytic activity in fat snook (Centropomus parallelus) bred in captivity

Area of Science:

• Aquatic animal health
• Fish physiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Hematological parameters and immune function are crucial indicators of fish health.
• Fat snook ( * * * * * ) health can be influenced by various biological and environmental factors.
• Understanding these influences is vital for aquaculture and conservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine hematological parameters and peritoneal macrophage phagocytic capacity in fat snook.
• To analyze variations related to sex, gonadal maturation stage, and seasonal cycle.
• To establish baseline health indicators for captive fat snook.

Main Methods:

• Blood collection from 135 fat snook (78 females, 57 males).
• Analysis of erythrocyte count, hematocrit, hemoglobin, erythrocyte indices (MCV, MCHC), leukocyte counts, and thrombocyte counts.
• Assessment of phagocytic capacity and index using *Saccharomyces cerevisiae*.

Main Results:

• Males exhibited higher erythrocyte, leukocyte, and thrombocyte counts than females.
• Erythrocyte values in males increased with gonadal maturation.
• Winter showed lower hematocrit, hemoglobin, phagocytic capacity, and index, indicating reduced immune response.

Conclusions:

• Sex, gonadal maturation, and season significantly impact fat snook hematology and immunity.
• Winter presents the least favorable conditions for fat snook health and survival in captivity.
• Studied parameters can serve as valuable tools for assessing the health status of captive fat snook.