Changes in fish gills caused by water-borne metals, and their physiological implications (Review)
2000
Jezierska, B. (University of Podlasie, Siedlce (Poland). Dept. of Animal Physiology)
Structural and functional changes in fish gills induced by high concentrations of water-borne metals were described. The changes include: excessive mucus secretion, changes in secondary lamellae - swelling and lifting of the epithelium, fusion of the lamellae, changes in blood circulation - hemorrhages, infiltration of leucocytes, disturbances in chloride cells, and changes of activity of membrane ATPases. Damaged epithelium covered with large amounts of mucus is a barrier for oxygen, and disturbs ion transport. Metal-exposed fish show impaired respiratory functions, hypoxia, and in some cases - die from suffocation. Changes in ion transport through the gill epithelium cause osmoregulatory disturbances, changes in blood such as swelling and damage of erythrocytes. Depletion of calcium causes structural changes of bone tissue such as impairment of calcification, and synthesis of collagen. It may also disturb muscle and nervous system functions.
显示更多 [+] 显示较少 [-]