Changes in the epidermal U1trastructure of atlantic herrring (Clupea harengus) yolk-sac larvae exposed to copper

摘要

The effect of copper on the yolk-sac larvae of Clupea harengus (Clupeidae) hatched from eggs previously exposed to copper were examined in terms of epidermal ultrastructure. The dermal cells of the larvae hatched in 0.03 or 0.05 mgl~-1 copper showedthe following changes:extensive vacuolation, degeneration of mitochondria and golgi complexes, dilation of endoplasmic reticulum and perinuclear spaces, disruption of the nuclear membrane, disap-pearance of felt-like fibrous plate and increase in the size and number of microvilli. the chloride cells in copper-exposed larvae had fewer and smaller mitochondria. These ultrastructural changes probably affect respirtion and osmoregulation, thus the survival of herring larvae exposed to copper.