Changes in blood levels of nucleoside triphosphates, hemoglobin and hematocrits during parr-smolt transformation of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch).

Increases and subsequent decreases in gill Na+-K+ ATPase activity during parr-smolt transformation in coho salmon were accompanied by changes in blood nucleoside triphosphate (NTP) levels, hemoglobin concentrations and hematocrits. An advanced photoperiod schedule accelerated the parr-smolt transformation and the rate of changes in Na+-K+ ATPase activity, NTP and hematocrit levels. Ratios of NTP:hematocrits and of NTP:hemoglobin increased during smoltification. Hematological changes suggest preparation for increased oxygen demand during migration and greater energy requirements by erythrocytes during smoltification and sea-water adaptation.

Steelhead migration: potential temperature effects as indicated by gill adenosine triphosphatase activities.

Yearling steelhead trout held in fresh water at cold temperatures (6.5 degrees or 10 degrees C) showed an increase in gill microsomal Na(+), K(+)-stimulated adenosine triphosphatase activity during parr-smolt transformation, whereas trout held in warm water (15 degrees or 20 degrees C) did not. Adenosine triphosphatase activity increased and other indications of transformation were observed in fish transferred from warm to cold water, whereas the reverse occurred on transfer from cold to warm water.