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Taking a blood sample from the caudal vein of a smallmouth bass

By Eastern Ecological Science Center
Scientist inserting a needle with a syringe in the caudal vein (located below the spine) of a smallmouth bass
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Detailed Description

Nonlethal smallmouth bass sampling is being done to address health concerns and population declines that may be associated with polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the upper Potomac River.  As part of our nonlethal sampling methods, blood/plasma can be analyzed for PFAS in smallmouth bass.  PFAS is a known carcinogen and thyroid, immune, and endocrine disruptor.  To learn more, please check out our latest manuscript on PFAS bioaccumulation in the plasma of smallmouth bass at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8198932/pdf/ijerph-18-0588….

Sources/Usage

Public Domain.