Nonsurgical videolaparoscopy for determination of reproductive status of the Arctic charr

The efficient commercial production of Arctic charr is hampered by the limited and subtle sexual dimorphism shown by this species. This project examined the feasibility of low-cost videoendoscopy through the genital pore to determine sex, stage of maturity, and safety for 80, randomly selected, anesthetized Arctic charr. The sensitivity and specificity for correct assignment of male sex were 90% and 100%, respectively, among 3 observers in a single-blind design. Sensitivity and specificity for relative sexual maturity in the same fish were 96% and 54%, respectively. The observed mortality rate of 7% at the end of 3 weeks was confounded by the presence of unrelated disease. We conclude that the technique holds promise for application by producers to improve production efficiency.