What anesthetic agent is commonly used for aquatic species?

Tricaine methanesulfonate (MS-222) is commonly used as an anesthetic agent for aquatic species because it is water-soluble and can be easily administered through the aquatic environment. MS-222 is effective in reducing stress and pain in fish and other aquatic organisms during procedures such as handling, surgery, or transport. Its effectiveness in providing anesthesia while being safely diluted and delivered in water makes it the preferred choice for aquatic species, promoting animal welfare and minimizing anxiety during experimental or veterinary procedures. This makes it particularly suitable where other inhalant anesthetics, which require gas delivery systems, may not be practical or safe for aquatic organisms.