What a shocker

So this week I've been learning how to use an electric fishing machine.  We had a day-long class on Tuesday and today Anson and I got to do the practical part and go out in a stream to learn the techniques.  After following a very long list of safety procedures and equipment, it's not dangerous at all...keeping in mind that it could easily kill you if the electric current goes through your chest or anyone's around you.  I managed to not shock Anson nor myself.  If you are using the appropriate amount of voltage for the habitat then the electricity causes the fish to swim towards the hand-held electrode and then you can scope it up with a net.  And again, if you are doing it appropriately, it doesn't harm the fish at all...just so long as you didn't zap it too long.  And it's pretty much like regular fishing...much more fun if you're catching fish but still great to be out in a stream on a beautiful day.

Another exciting note...I've submitted my first paper on my master's research to a journal (Journal of Parasitology).    WOOHOO!  Now I just gotta keep my fingers crossed that it's accepted.