External damage and changes in blood parameters in female tench, <Emphasis Type="Italic">Tinca tinca</Emphasis> (L.) retained in anglers’ keepnets

The effect of keeping female tench in two different types of keepnets for 24 h after landing was tested. The first type, fine knotted nylon mesh, was placed in two different positions in the edge: (a) anglers position, anchored on one side and (b) stretch position, anchored on both ends of the keepnets. The second type was made of dense fine and soft textile net in black color and anchored on both ends in a stretch position. After capture by rod the fish were landed by hand, the hook was removed and the damage to the body and fins checked before confining the fish inside the keepnets. After confinement, blood samples were collected and the number, disposition and extent of wounds checked. The retention in the keepnets did not produce significant changes in plasma cortisol, glucose and osmolality. Fine knotted nets caused more injuries than the soft textile one. As a consequence, the use of this latter type is recommended for tench retention.