At Dryden Middle School today, students were quick to point out a spinal deformity in one of the brook trouts living in their tank. Deformities like this are not unusual to find in fish that come from hatcheries, however it is less likely to find a fish like this in a wild stream. Survival of the fittest will typically win over in the wild, as survival rate of fish with deformities is low. In a hatchery, or more controlled environment, fish have a better chance of surviving to maturity with deformities like this. What will be interesting to observe as this particular brook trout develops, is the effect this spinal deformity has on swimming and agility in the water. Something exciting to keep an eye on in this classroom! Any other deformities noticed in your classroom tank?
No comments:
Post a Comment