Study of Haematological indices season changes in Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) on captivity condition

The hematological indices of Siberian sturgeon Acipenser baerii were studied in the different stages of sexual maturity (stages II, III and IV) in both genders. Red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), haematocrit (Hct), hemoglobin (Hb), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Haemagolobin (MCH) and Mean Corpuscular Haemagolobin Concenteration (HCHC) were measured in different seasons (from summer 2009 to spring 2010). RBC counts and Hct varied significantly (P<0.05) among different seasons in all three different stages of maturity. WBC counts showed considerable variations in stages II and III of maturity (P<0.05). MCV changed significantly (P<0.05) during different seasons in all three stages of maturity. The highest value for MCV (676.86±23.45 fl) was found in winter. MCHC had no variation during different seasons (P>0.05). Hb was lowest (4.95±0.98 gr/dl) in stage II of maturity in spring. The results of this study showed seasonal variations in haematological parameters of blood in Siberian sturgeon kept in captivity and should be considered when these parameters are utilized to evaluate fish health status. But sexuality did not effect on haematology parameters.