Spinal deformities are sometimes seen in fishes.

Five major causes have been identified. These are hereditary factors, damage during embryonic development, injuries, diseases (including parasites) and environmental influences (pollution).

Spinal deformities in farmed fishes can be caused by nutritional deficiencies (vitamins C and E and some amino acids).

Spinal deformities include scoliosis, lordosis and broken back (view the Scoliosis Research Society site for definitions of terms).

Further Reading

1. Hutchins, B. & R. Swainston. 1986. Sea Fishes of Southern Australia. Complete Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Swainston Publishing. Pp. 180.
2. Toften, H. & M. Jobling. 1996. Development of spinal deformities in Atlantic salmon and Artic charr fed diets supplemented with oxytetracycline. Journal of Fish Biology. 49: 668-677.
3. View spinal deformities of an Eastern Blue-spotted Flathead and Pacific Blue-eye.