Adaptation to salinity by fish. Macromolecular changes in mitochondria and microsomes of the gill.

ABSTRACT

Mitochondria isolated from the gill tissues of the fish Sarothredon mossambica were analysed for their macromolecular content, following transfer from freshwater to media of higher salinity. The results suggest a breakdown of mitochondria during the initial phases of the stress and a regeneration during continued exposure. Also all the synthetic machineries, in general, seem to be triggered in gill tissue during continuous exposure to hyperosmotic media.