A non-lethal technique for sampling liver from live juvenile Siberian sturgeon (Acipenserbaerii)

The liver, as a pivotal organ in the body responsible for a wide range of functions, including metabolism, detoxification, nutrient storage, and overall well-being is commonly sampled for various studies in fish research. Traditional methods for liver sampling require euthanizing the specimens. This study demonstrated a non-lethal or minimally invasive technique for collecting liver tissue from live juvenile Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) using a needle biopsy. We successfully collected small liver samples (100-250 mg) from each individual without any recorded mortalities. The incision was fully closed after 10 days post sampling. No significant differences in growth performance were observed between the needle-biopsied and control fish after 10 and 30 days. This technique offers a practical and valuable method for liver sampling, suitable for various research studies without sacrificing and harming fish. This is particularly beneficial for endangered and threatened species.