On December 18–21, employees of the aquaculture laboratories of the head division and the integrated fisheries laboratory of the Balkhash Branch, within the framework of the research project “Testing and implementation of effective biotechnical methods for rearing promising aquaculture species under the conditions of fish farms in Kazakhstan, with their genetic identification using DNA markers”, conducted data collection on the maintenance of tench specimens in RAS(Recirculating Aquaculture System). The work was aimed at studying the biological characteristics of tench (Tinca tinca). All activities were carried out in strict accordance with the approved R&D(Research and Development) schedule.

In addition, a separate line of work involved ultrasound scanning of the Aral ship sturgeon maintained in the RAS(Recirculating Aquaculture System) of the Balkhash Branch. Aquaculture and biological parameters were recorded, and samples were collected for genetic analysis.

Ultrasound diagnostics was used as a non-invasive method to assess the stage of gonadal development and to determine sex.

The results of the measurements and ultrasound scanning formed the basis for the preparation of a new scientific project aimed at an in-depth study of the biology and reproductive potential of the Aral ship sturgeon (Acipenser nudiventris). The collected information will be used to develop scientifically grounded recommendations for the conservation and monitoring of ship sturgeon populations.