Effects of the organophosphorous methyl parathion on the branchial epithelium of a freshwater fish Metynnis roosevelti
Braz. arch. biol. technol
; 46(3): 361-372, Jun. 2003. ilus
Article
in English
| LILACS
| ID: lil-351413
Responsible library:
BR1.1
RESUMO
Gills are vital structures for fish, since they are the main site for gaseous exchange as well as partially responsible for osmorregulation, acid-basic balance, excretion of nitrogenous compounds and taste. Chemicals in the water may alter the morphology of branchial cells of fish that are, therefore, a useful model for environmental impact and ecotoxicology studies. In order to investigate the effects of an organophosphorous compound, methyl parathion, on the gills of the fish, samples of Metynnis roosevelti were exposed to lethal (7ppm) and sublethal (1ppm) doses of Mentox 600 CE. Through light and scanning electron microscopy, shrinking of the branchial epithelium, followed by detachment and hyperplasia were observed. Externally, the branchial filaments presented the gradual disappearance of microridges. Even in sublethal doses, the organophosphorous reduced the health and fitness of these fish, as consequence of secondary effects derived from changes in the branchial epithelium, impairing oxygenation and ionic balance of the organism
Full text:
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Collection:
International databases
Database:
LILACS
Language:
English
Journal:
Braz. arch. biol. technol
Journal subject:
Biology
Year:
2003
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Brazil
Institution/Affiliation country:
Universidade Norte do Paraná/BR