The Oregon Coast Aquarium’s Halibut Flats sustains halibut, sturgeon, skates, and more. Among them is an especially notable resident—a massive yelloweye rockfish with orange scales and a single striking, vibrant eye. Easily identifiable, this fish holds a special place in the hearts of both staff and visitors.
This rockfish has faced ongoing health challenges, including distension and fluid buildup in its belly. To get to the bottom of these concerns, OCAq-contracted veterinarians Dr. Aimee Reed and Dr. Tim Miller-Morgan recommended transporting the fish to Oregon State University’s Lois Bates Acheson Veterinary Teaching Hospital for a CT scan.
Overseen by OCAq’s Certified Veterinary Technician, Margot Langan, and aquarists Abby Henderson and Tiffany Rudek, the rockfish’s transport was carefully planned. The team loaded large totes of seawater into the Aquarium van, with the precious cargo secured inside. During the hour-long journey, they kept a close eye on the oxygen and temperature levels, adjusting as needed to keep the fish as comfortable as possible.
Upon arrival, the rockfish was placed in anesthetized water while OSU diagnostic imaging specialist Dr. Susanne Stieger-Vanegas conducted an ultrasound to monitor its heart rate and look at its internal condition. Nearby, the CT table was prepped with a foam cradle, lined with a seawater-soaked towel.
The team worked efficiently—the less time the fish spent out of water, the better. Once everything was in place, the rockfish was transferred to the table, final adjustments were made, and everyone scurried out of the room so the CT could begin capturing 3D images of the fish’s internal structure.
After the scan, the fish was returned to oxygen-rich water to aid its recovery before heading back to the Aquarium. With scans now in hand, Dr. Reed, Dr. Miller-Morgan and colleagues can review the images and determine the next steps.
“This fish is a very charismatic and beloved member of the Aquarium,” said Dr. Reed. “We’re trying to give it the best quality of life and keep it happy and healthy as long as we can.”
