Alterations in plasma electrolyte levels of a freshwater fish Cyprinus carpio exposed to acidic pH |
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Authors: | Ramesh Mathan Mahalashmi Priya |
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Institution: | 1. Unit of Toxicology, Department of Zoology , School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University , Coimbatore 641046, Tamil Nadu, India;2. Department of Biotechnology , Dr N.G.P. Arts and Science College , Dr N.G.P. Nagar, Kalappatti Road, Coimbatore 641035, Tamil Nadu, India |
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Abstract: | The impact of acidification (Low pH 5.0) on plasma electrolytes (Na+, K+, Cl?, Ca2+, and Mg2+) in a freshwater fish Cyprinus carpio was studied for a 35 day (long term) exposure period, while control groups were maintained at neutral pH (7.3). During long-term (35 days) exposure periods, plasma K+ and Mg2+ levels were increased (77.8% and 16.0%) in the low pH (5.0) treated fish. On the other hand, plasma Na+, Cl?, and Ca2+ levels were decreased (12.4%, 18.4% and 31.3%, respectively). The loss of plasma Na+, Cl?, and Ca2+ indicates the displacement of Ca2+ from tight junctions. The increased plasma K+ ion might have resulted from acidosis, because intracellular K+ is released from muscle as H+ enters. The elevated level of plasma Mg2+ might be due to inhibition of active transport of magnesium across the kidneys resulting in the accumulation of this ion in the plasma. Ionic alteration takes place upon exposure to acidic pH and can be considered as a potential tool for detecting environmental stresses caused by acidification. |
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Keywords: | pH acidic plasma electrolytes Cyprinus carpio |
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