HANDLING AND RESTRAINT
Fish are best handled with a small mesh net. Fish should be kept in the net only as long as necessary to avoid disturbing the skin's mucous covering. The handler should take care not to let the fish flip from the net when transferring it to another container.
Fish may be transported by placing them in a plastic bag and then placing the bag in a styrofoam container. Oxygen may be added to the bag to extend the time for transportation.
The capturing and moving of fish can create stress and stress responses. Anesthetics such as tricaine methanesulfonate (MS 222) are useful for handling, experimental manipulation and transportation. Also, lowering the water temperature during handling and transportation can also reduce stress.