Tagging

Tagging Instructions
 

Star-Oddi's Suggestions

Measuring sequence and intervals

The user receives the tags with a Communication Box that works as an interface between the loggers and a PC, and a software for programing the tags and analyzing recorded data.  With the software, the user sets the start date, start time and sampling interval before starting the recorder. Up to seven different intervals can be set for the same measurement sequence. This is especially useful when more frequent measurements are needed at a certain time period. Before releasing the fish, each tag's serial number should be linked to the fish they are attached to with information on e.g. the size and release site of the fish. 

External and internal Tagging

The tags can be attached both externally and internally to the fish. When using external attachment, the tag is fastened close to or in front of the dorsal fin by steel threading. The internal tagging is done by implantation into the fish body cavity. For more detailed treatment of fish and suggestions about fish tagging see the following links: 
                                                                                                                                                                                                    -Internal tagging of cod
                                                                                                                                                                                                    -Fish tagging

Internal tagging

 
After Recapture

The tag will continue recording data until memory is filled or until connection is made for data retrieval.  The data retains in the memory of the tag, and can be uploaded on a PC, even if the battery is dead.  All DSTs can be reprogrammed and reused as long as the battery lasts. When tagged fish is recaptured it is adviced to write down e.g. where the fish was caught and what size it is.

The data can then be uploaded in the SeaStar supporting software using the Communication Box. In SeaStar the data can be analyzed both in graph and table and even imported to other softwares like Microsoft Excel.

Identification

Customers define their own text to appear on the tags' housings.  Normally the tagged fish is recaptured by fisheries so it is very important that the fishermen can immediately see where to return the tags. Usually, there is a reward  for the returned tags.  The housing text should contain information about: The owner, address where the recaptured tags should be sent to, phone number, and reward for returned tags (if any).  If there is space, you should also note on the label that the finder should write down the recapture site and length of the fish when recaptured.  When using external tagging, the DST tag is easily spotted by the fisherman. For internal tagging, a special flexible plastic tube can be fastened to the DST tag for external identification of the implanted DSTs. These plastic tubes come in a variety of colors.

Applications

By using the DST, the researcher can collect information that would otherwise be impossible to document. Data storage tags enable researchers to gather valuable information concerning the environment surrounding the animal with minimum disturbance to the animal. The tags have been used successfully in recording environmental parameters e.g. temperature, pressure (depth), salinity and tilt of the animal. The tag can be used for studies on e.g.:

• migration 
• distribution of fish
• stock assessment
• vertical and horizontal movements of the fish 
• feeding and mating behaviour

Equipment for Internal Tagging

In the table below are listed those equipment that the Icelandic researchers have used for internal tagging. If you are not able to get these items in your home country, Star-Oddi can assist in getting them from our Icelandic suppliers.

1 Medicon eG, P.O.Box 4455, D-78509 Tuttlingen, Germany. Tel. (0 74 62) 20 09-0 Fax. (0 74 62 ) 20 09 50
2 Swann Morton Ltd., Sheffield S6 2BJ, UK.
3 Ethicon, PO Box 408, Bankhead Avenue, Edinburg EH11 4HE, UK.
4 Cyanamid Medical Device Co., Inc., Anyang, Korea.
5 Cyanamid Ibérica, S.A., San Sebastian de los Reyes, 28080 Madrid, Spain.
6 Superfos Biosector a/s, Frydenlundsvej 30, 2950 Vedæk, Denmark. Tel. 45 42 89 31 11 Fax. 45 42 89 15 95 IDU-SCRUB: 45% isopropanol, 35% n-propanol.
7 Ridge Tool Co., Elyria, Ohio, USA
8 Kruuse, Byvej 35, Marslev, Denmark. Tel. 65 951414, Fax. 65 951503, e-mail: kruusedk@inet.uni-c.dk