Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies Feed

Spatial layout and wave attenuation efficiency of the muddy coastal protection in Vinh Long, Mekong River Delta

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Coastal deltas globally face increasing vulnerability to chronic erosion due to the synergistic effects of sea-level rise and diminished sediment supply, necessitating the development of optimized structural protection strategies for highly dynamic muddy environments. This study utilizes the MIKE 21/3 coupled numerical modeling system to evaluate the morphodynamic performance of two structural interventions under seasonal monsoonal forcing: shore-normal groynes (Option 1) and a detached breakwater system (Option 2). The results show that both interventions successfully transition the nearshore zone from an erosional state (natural retreat exceeding 10.0 cm) to a depositional regime. Option 1 is highly effective for sediment capture, yielding an average accretion of 1.0 cm and a 73% reduction in peak current velocities. In contrast, Option 2 exhibits superior wave attenuation, reducing significant wave heights by an average of 61.9% (approximately 54% more effectively than Option 1) while promoting a more uniform sedimentation pattern. However, both structures induce localized scouring at groyne tips and structural gaps, influenced by fluvial discharge. The study concludes that while detached breakwaters are optimal for wave energy dissipation and uniform morphological stability, groynes are preferable for maximizing total sediment accretion. These findings provide a science-based foundation for sustainable coastal management in climate-vulnerable deltaic regions.

Pre-invasion biological baselines for native fish and bivalves from a southern Mediterranean coastal lagoon: El Mellah, Algeria

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mediterranean coastal lagoons are increasingly threatened by biological invasions, yet impact assessments are critically constrained by the lack of pre-invasion biological baselines. This study establishes a biometric reference dataset for five autochthonous species of ecological and fisheries importance from El Mellah, Algeria's only coastal lagoon and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, using samples collected 5 years prior to the first observed occurrence of the invasive blue crab Callinectes sapidus. Length-weight relationships and condition indices were estimated for three fish (Anguilla anguilla, Mugil cephalus, Chelon auratus) and two bivalves (Cerastoderma glaucum and Ruditapes decussatus) from 1192 specimens. All regressions were highly significant (p < 0.0001, R2 = 0.828–0.966), with isometric growth observed in three species and negative allometry in the remaining two. Physiological conditions were broadly consistent with those reported from Mediterranean transitional ecosystems. By providing the earliest published biometric records for native species from El Mellah, this study establishes a valuable historical benchmark for future comparative assessments of biological change and long-term ecological monitoring following the establishment of C. sapidus and other ecological changes affecting this transitional ecosystem.

The impact of fixation, preservation, and freezing on fish morphology in three cichlid species, with a discussion of this study in relation to museum fish specimens

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The impact of different preservation procedures, including formalin fixation, ethanol preservation, and freezing, on the morphometric traits of fish preserved in museum specimens is tested in three different cichlid species: Oreochromis aureus (Steindachner, 1864), Coptodon zillii (Gervais, 1848), and Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758). The primary goal was to determine morphometric differences resulting from these procedures and identify correction values to reconstruct the original dimensions of the body. Our results support that shrinkage of morphological variables, such as total length (TL), standard length (SL),and head length (HL), is present in the three methods tested, depending on species, measurement, and treatment. This shrinkage is also supported by a least-squares regression analysis showing that length loss increases proportionally with larger fish sizes for the species under study. These findings are important as they confirm the differences observed among preservatives in all species, supporting the argument against significant morphometric biases related to freezing, while suggesting that standardized protocols be used with fixatives. These findings not only offer directions for those working with fish collections but also highlight the need for thorough documentation of preservation methods, in order to help future taxonomical and ecological research in ichthyology.

Hidden otolith morphologies of the two teleost fishes Boops boops and Nemipterus randalli: A scanning electron microscopy study from Antalya Bay, Mediterranean Türkiye

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Otoliths from Boops boops and Nemipterus randalli were collected in Antalya Bay, Türkiye, using bottom trawls (40–160 m depth). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed 21 morphological features, with 8 constants across life stages and 13 showing ontogenetic variation. Four variation types were identified: ontogenetic, interspecific, intraspecific, and sexual dimorphism. Comparison with otoliths from other regions showed notable intraspecific uniformity, confirming SEM-based analysis as a reliable tool for species identification. The study provides a SEM-based iconography for these species, supporting future taxonomic and ecological research. This work demonstrates SEM’s value in advancing otolith morphology for fisheries science, palaeontology, and ecological monitoring.

Metabolomic profiling and structural characterization of Ulva onhoi by HPTLC and NMR spectroscopy

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The green macroalga Ulva ohnoi is widely valued for its biotechnological potential, yet literature presents conflicting data regarding its secondary metabolome, frequently reporting phenolic compounds via nonspecific methods. To resolve these discrepancies, a multi-analytical strategy combining high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC), quantitative 1H-NMR, and sequential extraction was applied. HPTLC cochromatography unequivocally demonstrated the total absence of common phenolic secondary metabolites (such as caffeic acid, quercetin, and rutin), proving previous claims are likely analytical artifacts. Instead, NMR quantification revealed a matrix dominated by lipids and primary metabolites. The n-hexane extract contained high levels of saturated fatty acids (279.77 mg · g−1), while ethyl acetate yielded ω-3 fatty acids (13.82 mg · g−1), carotenoids (≈14 mg · g−1), and campesterol. The hydroalcoholic fraction showed a rich amino acid pool dominated by glutamine (26.9 mg · g−1) and glutamate (17.58 mg · g−1), alongside organic acids, carbohydrates, and a significant uncharacterized vinyl signal (15.4 mg · g−1). Furthermore, isolated ulvan comprised rhamnose (42.59%), glucuronic/sulfated glucuronic acid (31.64%), xylose (13.77%), and iduronic acid (12%). This study establishes a definitive metabolic fingerprint for U. ohnoi, redirecting its industrial focus away from elusive phenolics toward its true assets: functional lipids, free amino acids, ulvan polysaccharides, and a novel vinyl fraction.

Skeletal deformities in the invasive pumpkinseed sunfish (Lepomis gibbosus) inhabiting Turkish inland waters

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This investigation provides the first documented evidence of spinal pathologies in a wild population of the teleost Lepomis gibbosus from a freshwater habitat in Türkiye. The primary objective was the comprehensive diagnosis and characterization of skeletal deformities to establish a reference baseline for future ecotoxicological and biomonitoring studies. High-resolution mammography enabled the identification and classification of anomalies into two distinct groups. Major abnormalities included vertebral coalescence, hypural deformation, and abdominal rib deformation. Minor deformities comprised caudal fin ray, hemal spine, and parhypural bone deformities. The consistent ‘containment’ pattern of vertebral fusion, among other anomalies, suggests developmental disruption and supports the utility of this species as a bioindicator. This work provides a critical reference for identifying specific environmental stressors in freshwater ecosystems and for monitoring ecosystem health.

Seasonal dynamics of benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages and water quality in Lake Sapanca (Türkiye): A multimetric assessment

Mon, 07 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study examined spatial and seasonal variation of benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages in Lake Sapanca, based on samples from five stations during spring, summer, and autumn 2020, and winter 2021. Physicochemical parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), depth, NO2-N, NO3-N, PO4-P, and total phosphorus, were measured to assess their influence on community structure. In total, 31 taxa from Ephemeroptera, Coleoptera, Isopoda, Gastropoda, Oligochaeta, and Chironomidae were identified, with an average density of 1422 individuals · m−2. The Nitrate Pollution Index indicated no nitrate-related pollution across stations or seasons. Bray-Curtis analysis showed the highest similarity (96.80%) between summer and autumn, reflecting stable communities during these periods. Spearman correlation revealed a positive relationship between temperature and EC, while NO3-N was negatively correlated with temperature and PO4-P. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) showed that macroinvertebrate distribution was influenced by temperature and nutrient gradients. Biological indices, including Biological Monitoring Working Party (BMWP; Spainsh version), Margalef diversity index, and ecological quality ratio (EQR), revealed spatial differences among stations. Station 1 had the highest ecological quality; Stations 3 and 4 were classified as “good,” and the remaining stations as “moderate.” Overall, Lake Sapanca shows conditions ranging from moderate to good, providing a baseline for long-term monitoring and sustainable management.

Characteristics of the growth rate, fatty acid profile, and shell content of the freshwater snail Viviparus contectus (Millet, 1813)

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Freshwater snails are a nutritious food source, providing vital amino acids, minerals, and protein with low lipid levels. Hence, the adaptation ability, growth rate, fatty acid (FA) profile, and shell content of Viviparus contectus were determined. Biometric measurements were recorded for 6 months. Over the 6-month cultivation period, specific growth rates were recorded as 0.32% · day−1 for shell length and 0.92% · day−1 for body weight. The FA profile of the freshwater snail included a total of 32 compounds with saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated FAs represented by 13, 10, and 9 types, respectively. Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) exhibited the highest concentration, followed by saturated fatty acids (SFAs) s at 35.14% and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) at 14.57%. Stearic acid (C18:0), erucic acid (C22:1 n-9), and arachidonic acid (C20:4 n−6) were determined as the most abundant FAs within the saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated FAs classes, respectively. The energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy spectra analysis revealed that the shell powder composition consisted of the elements, such as carbon, oxygen, calcium, iron, manganese, and silicium. Overall, V. contectus showed a clear increase in growth over the cultivation period, and future studies are needed to obtain the best culture conditions and intensive production of the species.

Marine microalgae as potential source for sustainable aquafeeds: A scientometric perspective on stewarding aquaculture sustainability

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aquaculture, the fastest-growing food sector, has emerged as a vital contributor to nutritional sustainability and global food security. Rapid growth of the world population, coupled with rising nutritional requirements, has shifted focus from constrained land-based food production to sustainable aquatic-food production systems. In this context, nutrient-rich marine microalgae have gained considerable attention as sustainable plant-based ingredients for aquafeeds and as a valuable resource for high-value aquaculture production. A scientometric analysis was conducted to evaluate the research landscape and emerging trends in the field “marine microalgae in advancing sustainable aquaculture feeds and development.” 1073 Scopus-based publications were identified, accounting for an h-index of 83, with yearly escalation in citations from 2008 onward. Visualization of country-based co-authorships illustrate Europe forming the primary collaboration landscape with maximal funded projects (83), while the US acts as a linkage node between Europe, Asia, and emerging regions. Norway is the leading country as per cumulative link strength with other regions, in terms of co-authorships. Keyword, title, abstract terms depict potential of microalgae, deemed as alternative source of aquaculture feeds and nutraceutical substances. Time trending semantic association depict promising role of microalgae food technologies in augmenting fish productivity, growth, value-added production, resource-use efficiency and sustainable aquaculture development contributing to circular blue economy.

Phytohormone profiles in macroalgae: A comprehensive review of biochemical diversity and plant growth-promoting effects

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Within the framework of the expanding blue bioeconomy, macroalgae represent a significant repository of bioactive metabolites with diverse biotechnological applications. Among these, phytohormones constitute critical signaling molecules regulating algal ontogeny and, upon exogenous application, modulating physiological responses in terrestrial crops. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the phytohormonal landscape across Phaeophyceae, Rhodophyta, and Chlorophyta. The biochemical diversity of both classical growth regulators and emerging signaling molecules such as brassinosteroids and jasmonates is systematically categorized, detailing their endogenous dynamics and evolutionary divergences from vascular plants. Furthermore, the review evaluates the methodological transition from conventional extraction techniques to high-resolution ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, addressing the challenges associated with complex matrix interferences. Finally, the specific mechanisms underlying seaweed-mediated plant growth promotion are elucidated, focusing on root system remodeling, enhanced nutrient use efficiency, and abiotic stress tolerance. Consequently, this synthesis offers a comprehensive framework for utilizing macroalgal biochemistry in sustainable agricultural intensification.

Effects of stomach content and gonad mass on length–weight relationships and condition indices in fish species with different body shapes

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Length–weight relationships (LWRs) are widely used in fisheries science to describe growth patterns and assess fish condition, yet they are based on total body weight, which includes variable non-structural components such as stomach contents and gonads. The effects of these components on LWR parameters and condition indices remain poorly understood. This study evaluated the influence of stomach fullness and gonad mass on LWRs and Fulton’s condition factor (K) in three fish species with different body shapes: Diplodus annularis, Boops boops, and Citharus linguatula. A total of 159 individuals were analyzed using three weight definitions: total body weight (TW), gutted weight (F), and gonad-adjusted weight (TWG) estimated from the literature-based gonadosomatic index (GSI) values. LWR parameters and K values were statistically compared among weight types. The allometric coefficient (b) did not differ significantly among weight definitions, indicating that internal biological components had little effect on estimated growth patterns. In contrast, body weight and Fulton’s K differed significantly (p < 0.05), with significant differences detected only in D. annularis. Sensitivity analysis identified GSI thresholds (~5% and ~13%) at which gonad mass affects weight-based comparisons, emphasizing the importance of standardized weight definitions in condition assessments.

Integrated assessment of reproductive biology and population parameters of the Lessepsian shrimp Marsupenaeus japonicus (Decapoda: Penaeidae) in the Gulf of Antalya, eastern Mediterranean

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectivesThis study provides an integrated assessment of the population structure, growth and reproductive biology of the kuruma shrimp (Marsupenaeus japonicus) in the Gulf of Antalya, based on monthly sampling between January and December 2018.MethodsA total of 516 individuals (267 females, 249 males) were collected using shrimp trammel nets. Sex ratio, total length (TL), body weight, gonadosomatic index (GSI) and gonadal maturity stages were analyzed. Length–weight relationships (LWR) and size at first sexual maturity (TL50) were estimated.ResultsThe sex ratio (1.07:1) did not differ significantly from 1:1 (p > 0.05). Females were significantly larger than males, with mean TLs of 16.9 ± 2.16 cm and 14.9 ± 1.23 cm, respectively (p < 0.001). GSI values pointed to a prolonged reproductive period from April to November, with peak activity in July (6.13) and August (6.06). Monthly GSI was strongly correlated with seawater temperature (r = 0.85, p < 0.01). TL50 for females was estimated at 15.3 cm TL.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that M. japonicus maintains an extended reproductive season in the Gulf of Antalya and exhibits sex-specific growth patterns. The estimated TL50 and peak spawning period offer useful reference points for fisheries management, particularly for setting minimum landing sizes and seasonal fishing restrictions to support stock sustainability.

Length-weight relationships and condition factors of fish species in the Küçükçekmece Lagoon (NW Türkiye)

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study investigated the length–weight relationships (LWRs) and condition factors (CF) of five fish species (Atherina pontica, Engraulis encrasicolus, Neogobius melanostomus, Chelon auratus, and Knipowitschia caucasica) inhabiting the Küçükçekmece Lagoon (Istanbul, Türkiye). Fish samples were collected using gillnets and seine nets between September 2023 and August 2024. A total of 1213 individuals from five fish species were analyzed for LWR and CF. The allometric coefficient (b) estimated from the linear regression model of the LWR ranged from 3.071 for A. pontica to 3.454 for N. melanostomus, it was determined that the relationships of the species examined exhibited allometric growth. The coefficient of determination (R2) values of the LWRs ranged from 0.9581 (E. encrasicolus) to 0.9897 (C. auratus). Fulton’s CF values ranged from 0.27 in E. encrasicolus to 2.00 in K. caucasica. This study provides the first report of LWR and CF parameters for four species (E. encrasicolus, N. melanostomus, C. auratus and K. caucasica) in this lagoon. These findings contribute to future assessments of ecosystem health and its impact on fish growth within the lagoon basin.

The presence of the non-native diamond lizardfish Synodus synodus off the coast of Benghazi, Libya: Implications for Mediterranean biodiversity

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

As one of the world’s foremost hotspots for marine bioinvasions, the Mediterranean Sea functions as a dynamic theater where both introduced aliens and naturally range-expanding neonative species are actively rewriting the region’s biodiversity narrative. Among the fishes navigating this shifting landscape, the diamond lizardfish Synodus synodus, a species of subtropical Atlantic origin, has historically remained on the periphery of the basin’s ichthyofauna, its presence long regarded as incidental and supported by little more than fragmentary or poorly substantiated records. The present study confirms the occurrence of S. synodus (Linnaeus, 1758) along the central southern coast of the Mediterranean, based on morphological examination of three specimens collected on 18 June 2025, off the coast of Benghazi, Libya. Meristic counts and morphometric measurements yielded diagnostic characters unequivocally consistent with the species. The confirmation of S. synodus in Libyan waters carries considerable ecological and zoogeographical weight, particularly when viewed against the broader backdrop of the species’ progressive range expansion throughout the Mediterranean Basin.

Age structure and growth dynamics of the endemic Algerian barbel, Luciobarbus callensis (Valenciennes, 1842) in Foum El Khanga Dam, northeastern Algeria

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study provides initial insights into the age structure and growth patterns of the Algerian barbel, Luciobarbus callensis (Valenciennes, 1842), in Foum El Khanga Dam (Northeastern Algeria). For this purpose, a monthly sampling was conducted throughout 2024, yielding a total of 185 specimens (129 males and 56 females). Subsequently, age was estimated using scalimetric analysis, and growth was described via the Von Bertalanffy model. Results revealed six age classes (1–6 years), among which individuals aged 3 and 4 years were the most frequent, accounting for 34.59% of the sample. Total lengths ranged from 24.20 to 55.70 cm, with a predominance of the [30–35] cm size class. Regarding growth modeling, the estimated parameters were L∞ = 58.63cm, K = 0.39 year−1, and t0 = -0.35. In addition, the length–weight relationship exhibited negative allometry (b = 2.30), indicating that linear growth outpaces weight gain in this environment. In conclusion, these findings establish a preliminary biological baseline for this endemic cyprinid. Despite the localized nature of the study, these data offer a necessary scientific starting point for future monitoring and the management of fish resources in the region’s artificial reservoirs.

Exploration in a behaviourally diverse potamodromous fish is not influenced by changes in feeding predictability

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Recreational angling can involve the regular use of energy-rich, formulated baits. These angling subsidies can represent a significant anthropogenic input into freshwaters and could alter the exploratory and foraging behaviour of individuals. To assess how angling bait exposure influences exploratory behaviour in novel environments, the effect of variable food distribution (random vs predictable distribution) was assessed on the body condition and exploratory behaviour of European barbel Barbus barbus, a species of high phenotypic diversity in exploratory behaviour and angling bait consumption. Using hatchery-reared fish, exploratory behaviours were assessed in open arena (OA) experiments following an initial period of fixed food distribution, after which the food distribution pattern was switched to assess their plasticity in exploratory behaviour. Following initial food exposure, all fish showed increased condition, with significantly higher condition in the predictable feeding group. Although exploration time was higher in the random feeding group in both OA experiments, these differences were not significant according to food distribution and fish condition. Although hatchery-reared juvenile fish might differ in their behavioural expression versus wild, adult fish, this study nonetheless suggests that short-term exposure to different food distributions does not alter barbel exploratory behaviour, with individual differences more likely driven by inherent behavioural traits.

Modeling of Eucheuma cottonii habitat suitability in relation to upwelling and the Indian Ocean Dipole in Cilacap and Kebumen Coastal Waters, Indonesia

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study examines the influence of climate variability associated with the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) on the habitat suitability of E. cottonii cultivation in the coastal waters of Cilacap and Kebumen, southern Java. A Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) model was developed using a Boolean threshold implemented in Python. Environmental parameters included sea surface temperature (SST), salinity, nitrate concentration, surface current velocity, and bathymetry. The analysis focused on three representative years reflecting different climate conditions: negative IOD (2016), normal conditions (2018), and positive IOD (2019) from June–September. Results indicate that seasonal upwelling in southern Java tends to reduce habitat suitability for E. cottonii. During normal and positive IOD conditions, stronger upwelling from July to September corresponded with lower HSI values compared with June. In contrast, during the negative IOD phase, when upwelling signals were weaker, HSI values remained relatively stable. Kruskal–Wallis results indicate significant differences in SST, salinity, and nitrate among climate conditions, whereas surface currents show no significant variation. Sensitivity analysis suggests that bathymetry contributes more strongly to habitat suitability, while other parameters vary under different IOD conditions. Because the analysis is based on only three representative years, the results should be interpreted as exploratory rather than a generalized climatic pattern.

Rarely reported Planothidium Round et Bukhtiyarova (Bacillariophyceae) from flowing waters of southern Poland

Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The aim of this study was to document new records for Poland of Planothidium species occurring in running waters of southern Poland and to characterise their morphology, ecology and distribution. The study material was collected during the spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) seasons in years 2013, 2017, 2023 and 2024. Species identification was conducted using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Environmental parameters were measured in situ and complemented by laboratory analyses of water chemistry. Ecological status was assessed using diatom indices (Specific Pollution Sensitivity Index, Generic Diatom Index). Five Planothidium species not previously reported from Poland were identified: Planothidium cavilanceolatum, Planothidium daui, Planothidium gallicum, Planothidium hinzianum and Planothidium potapovae. Most taxa occurred rarely and predominantly as individual valves, which limits the precise interpretation of their ecological preferences. In our study, P. daui exhibited a broad ecological amplitude, occurring under oligo- to eutrophic conditions, whereas P. cavilanceolatum, P. gallicum and P. hinzianum were restricted to specific habitats and showed low abundances. In contrast, P. potapovae reached dominant status in the upper course of the Szum River, where it was associated with oligotrophic conditions, sandy substrates and high calcium concentrations.

Could Ilıca Stream (Antalya-Türkiye) become a new stronghold for Garra turcica (Teleostei: Cyprinidae)? An evaluation of ecological and population parameters

Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study presents the first data on the growth and reproductive characteristics of a population of the freshwater fish Garra turcica outside its natural distribution area (Antalya–Ilıca Stream). It is thought that the species was most likely introduced to the region through “fish spa” practices. In all, 505 individuals were captured during sampling in 2025. The total length of the individuals ranged from 32.38 to 136.65 mm, and their ages ranged from 0 to 5 years. The average (absolute) fecundity was 1533.44 ± 133.02 eggs, and the breeding season occurred between May and August. The average age at first sexual maturity was 1.03 years, and the average length was 69.47 mm. Although four endemic and one native species were recorded in the study area, G. turcica exhibited the highest population density. However, as direct ecological impacts were not assessed in this study, its potential influence on native communities remains to be clarified. These findings provide baseline data for future evaluations of the species’ establishment dynamics and possible ecological implications.

Scoliosis deformity in Alburnus escherichii, an endemic freshwater leuciscid (Teleostei) from the Sakarya River Basin, Türkiye: morphological description and a case study

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In this study, a total of eight Alburnus escherichii individuals were captured from the Sakarya River Basin, Türkiye. In only one of these specimens, a skeletal deformity (scoliosis) was observed and examined. The scoliosis affected the caudal region of the vertebral column, presenting two curves originating posterior to the dorsal fin. These curves formed two angles, measuring 135° and 152°. Externally, at the point of scoliosis onset, the body contour and lateral line scales were deformed. The deformity affected the posterior part of the dorsal fin and the anterior part of the anal fin. Additionally, the neural and hemal spines of the ultimate abdominal vertebra were slightly deformed. This study discusses the possible causes of scoliosis and the significance of reporting such deformities for anatomical and broader ichthyological research.