Intracoelomic implantation of transmitters in Longnose Gar Lepisosteus osseus

AbstractFish in the family Lepisosteidae (herein Gar) have unique ganoid scales that pose inherent challenges when attempting to implant electronic tags for telemetry studies in their coelom. Here we outline a unique approach for conducting laparotomic surgery in Gar, with specific focus on Longnose Gar Lepisosteus osseus. An electric rotary tool with a circular cutting blade was used to cut through the scales and the same tool, with a drill bit, was used to create holes through which to run the suture material. The final incision into the body cavity was made using a scalpel and the incision was expanded using surgical scissors. Using a passive acoustic telemetry array, the survival of 12 out of 15 tagged Longnose Gar was confirmed over a 123-day period based on their detection at receivers outside of their area of capture and release. Two individuals were recaptured 17–19 weeks postsurgery and showed complete healing of the wounds with limited evidence of scarring. This approach will allow for long-term...