Comparative Evaluation of Marking Effects of Two Fluorescent Chemicals, Alizarin Red S and Calcein, on Black Sea Bream (Acanthopagrus schlegelii)

Abstract

Two fluorescent dyes, alizarin red S (ARS) and calcein (CAL), were applied to evaluate the marking effects on the juveniles of Acanthopagrus schlegelii. The total mortality rates of the experimental groups were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of control groups, but no significant difference was detected between those of the two staining methods. The fluorescence microscopy observation results showed that the marking quality of ARS was better than that of CAL, with fin spines and fin rays being the best marking tissues. The optimal concentration for ARS and CAL was 200 mg/L and 350 mg/L, respectively. To ensure mark quality, the recommended dye grade was above 3, and the most suitable marking conditions were suggested to be fluorescence labeling with ARS dye at a concentration of 200 mg/L, with immersion for 24 h. The results will provide useful data information for future research on stock enhancement using the chemical marking method.