Non-destructive nuclear magnetic resonance image study of belly bursting in herring (Clupea harengus)

Herring (Clupea harengus) captured during the heavy feeding spring season were examined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis. MRI was performed at room temperature on the frozen-thawed herring for approximately 50 h. The results showed that the stomachs were filled with prey and that they were very resistant to degradation. The ventral muscle, on the other hand, together with the upper part of the intestine (as confirmed during collection of samples on board fishing vessels), seemed to be the most sensible structures where the autolysis commenced and extended to the rest of the abdominal cavity.