The stress response in fish: Mechanisms, effects and measurement

A basic overview is provided of the mechanistic basis of the neuroendocrine stress response in fish. The contrast between acute and chronic stress is highlighted and the role of cortisol in the deleterious effects of stress is explained. factors that modify the stress response are discussed and the applicability of the salmonid model to other species of fish is considered. The scope for using selective breeding to ameliorate the adverse effects of stress in intensive aquaculture is discussed with examples from the author's research. Finally, the measurement of stress-related endpoints is addressed and the value of stress detection in a welfare context is discussed.