Transepithelial ion exchange in smolting atlantic salmon (Salmo Salar L.).
Whole-body (but predominantly gill) Na(+) exchange, gill Na(+)/K(+)/ATPase activity and seawater tolerance were examined in juvenile Atlantic salmon during the smolting period. Transepithelial net Na(+) gain decreased steadily from late February showing a net loss in April and early May, returning to approximate equilibrium in mid-May. This seasonal net loss of Na(+) to the environment occurred slightly after maximal gill epithelial Na(+)/K(+)/ATPase activity and preceded maximal seawater tolerance. The results are discussed in relation to changes in gill permeability and salt intake via the diet.
Department of Human Anatomy, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, OX1 1QX, Oxford, U.K..
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Primmett
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Eddy
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Miles
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Talbot
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Thorpe