Fin condition in intensively cultured Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis)

Condition of all fins was assessed in intensively cultured perch (n = 300) in comparison with control pond-reared perch (n = 30). Measurements of maximum fins length as well as a four point photographic scale were used. No damage to any fin was visually observed in the pond-reared group. The first dorsal fin showed the least damage in cultured perch with 93 % of fish demonstrating no erosion. The most affected were paired fins, with only 7 % and 2 % of pectoral and ventral fins, respectively, being non-eroded. No difference between culture systems was found in fin length for the first dorsal and the caudal fin. Pectoral, second dorsal, ventral, and anal fins of intensively cultured perch showed reductions up to 52, 49, 35, and 28 %, respectively. The relationship between fin lengths and standard body length (SL) were described for both groups (SL range 104-170 mm). Results of this study are discussed in relation to aesthetic, welfare and fish survival issues.