The effects of selenium on the physiological stress response in fish
Date
2006
Authors
Miller, Lana L.
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Arts and Science
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Arts and Science, 2006.
Abstract
Selenium (Se), an essential element, can bioaccumulate and become toxic. The
main toxicity symptom in fish, teratogenicity, is mediated by oxidative stress; however,
little is known about the effect of Se on the physiological stress response (PSR). The
effects of Se on the PSR and oxidative stress parameters were investigated in rainbow
trout, brook trout, and white suckers. The PSR was activated by acute and sub-chronic
laboratory exposures to NaSeO3, but not exposure to environmental levels of Se.
Species-specific sensitivity to Se may be explained by biochemical differences. Rainbow
trout (exhibit oxidative damage with Se exposure) have greater GSH reserves (cycles
with Se causing oxidative stress) than brook trout. Selenium in agricultural drain water
did not accumulate to dangerous levels in white suckers, but additional stressors (e.g.
pesticides) were present. Differences in sensitivity to Se may alter competitive
interactions between species, changing community compositions and putting additional
pressure on threatened species.
Description
xiii, 150 leaves ; 29 cm.
Keywords
Dissertations, Academic , Selenium -- Environmental aspects , Fishes -- Effect of stress on , Fishes -- Effect of chemicals on