Possible application of non-invasive tools to characterize European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) from two different farming systems

Rearing conditions can affect fish morphology, physiology, and welfare in several manners, for instance given the different hydrodynamic conditions or stocking densities. This preliminary study aimed to evaluate non-invasive tools to understand if and how the farming system can influence external shape, skin pigmentation, and freshness evolution during refrigerated storage of European sea bass and gilthead sea bream. A total of 100 individuals (50 sea bass and 50 sea bream) were obtained from a fish farm (Piombino, Italy) equipped with floating cages and inland tanks. Fishes were photographed in lateral aspect to analyze shape, while skin color was analyzed with a colorimeter. Freshness and Rigor Index were observed during 7 days of refrigerated storage. Results showed that shape and color analyses can be useful tools to discriminate fish farmed under different conditions, i.e., marine sea cages and inland tanks. Moreover, farming conditions significantly affected rigor resolution and fish freshness, especially in European sea bass.