What is the first step recommended before collecting a biopsy sample in fish?

Before collecting a biopsy sample in fish, sedation is the first recommended step. Sedating the fish facilitates the handling process, minimizing stress and potential injury to both the fish and the veterinarian. It allows for a more controlled environment, reducing the likelihood of excessive movement that could complicate the biopsy procedure and increase the risk of negative outcomes, such as poor sample collection or injury to the fish.

Sedation also helps in ensuring the welfare of the animal by decreasing its stress levels during what could be a painful procedure. This approach is vital in aquatic veterinary practice where the welfare of the fish is a primary concern. It’s important to use appropriate sedation methods and dosages that are safe and effective for the specific species of fish being examined, as different species may have varied responses to sedative agents.