UR Scholarship Repository

Title

The effects of the toxins of Lophopodella carteri (ectoprocta) on the blood gas properties of the bluegill Lepomis macrochirus

Author

Robert Allen May

Date of Award

5-1974

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Biology

Abstract

Lepomis macrochirus (bluegill) were exposed, in small containers, to homogenates of Lophopodella carteri, an ectoproct that contains substances toxic to gilled vertebrates. Blood pH, pco₂, and po₂ were determined with a blood gas analyzer. Blood carbonic anhydrase activity was measured manometrically.

The ectoproct toxins caused significant decreases in blood pH and po₂ and a significant increase in blood pco₂ and carbonic anhydrase activity. It is proposed that these changes in blood properties were initiated by a film of mucus covering the gill epithelium. The secretion of mucus is thought to be a response to irritation of the gills by the ectoproct toxins.

Recommended Citation

May, Robert Allen, "The effects of the toxins of Lophopodella carteri (ectoprocta) on the blood gas properties of the bluegill Lepomis macrochirus" (1974). Master's Theses. 372.
https://scholarship.richmond.edu/masters-theses/372