Hematology and Blood Chemistry Reference Intervals for Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) Raised in Recirculation Systems

Determination of hematology and blood plasma biochemistry values is routinely used to assess the health of wild and domestic animals. Yellow perch (Perca flavescens) culture is a growing segment of the U.S. aquaculture industry and tools are needed to monitor the health status of these fish. This paper reports reference values for complete hematological and biochemistry profiles of normal, healthy yellow perch raised in recirculation culture conditions. The following hematologic values were determined: packed cell volume, plasma protein, erythrocyte, leukocyte, lymphocyte, neutrophil, monocyte, and thrombocyte numbers. A description of leukocyte morphology is presented. Additionally, the following plasma biochemical values were determined: total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, glucose, and cholesterol. Reference values for a specific population of fish need to be determined prior to utilizing diagnostic blood samples from individuals. Developing diagnostic hematology for fishes can enhance yellow perch culture by providing a means for the early detection and identification of infectious disease and of sub-lethal conditions that may affect production performance.