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17 pages, 1234 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Chitosan on the Muscle Composition, Digestion, Lipid Metabolism, and Stress Resistance of Juvenile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Exposed to Cadmium-Induced Stress

by Qin Zhang, Yi Xie, Yuanhui Zhang, Enhao Huang, Liuqing Meng, Yongqiang Liu and Tong Tong

Animals 2024, 14(4), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14040541 - 06 Feb 2024

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Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary chitosan supplementation on the muscle composition, digestion, lipid metabolism, and stress resistance, and their related gene expression, of juvenile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) subjected to cadmium (Cd²⁺) stress. [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary chitosan supplementation on the muscle composition, digestion, lipid metabolism, and stress resistance, and their related gene expression, of juvenile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) subjected to cadmium (Cd²⁺) stress. Juvenile tilapia with an initial body weight of 21.21 ± 0.24 g were fed with a formulated feed containing five different levels (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0%) of chitosan for 60 days, while the water in all experimental groups contained a Cd²⁺ concentration of 0.2 mg/L. The results showed that, compared with the control group (0% chitosan), the contents of crude fat and crude protein in the muscle, the activities of lipase, trypsin, and amylase in the intestine, as well as the relative expression levels of metallothionein (mt), cytochrome P450 1A (cyp1a), carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (cpt-1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (pparα), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (pparγ), hormone-sensitive lipase (hsl), lipoprotein lipase (lpl), malate dehydrogenase (mdh), leptin (lep), fatty acid synthase (fas), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (srebp1), and stearoyl-CoA desaturase (scd) genes in the liver of juveniles were significantly increased (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary chitosan supplementation could alleviate the effects of Cd²⁺ stress on the muscle composition, digestive enzymes, lipid metabolism, and stress resistance, and their related gene expression, of juvenile tilapia, and to some extent reduce the toxic effect of Cd²⁺ stress on tilapia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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14 pages, 1403 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Morphometric Relationships between Length and Weight of 109 Fish Species in the Caribbean Sea (French West Indies)

by Kélig Mahé, Jérome Baudrier, Angela Larivain, Solène Telliez, Romain Elleboode, Elise Bultel and Lionel Pawlowski

Animals 2023, 13(24), 3852; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13243852 - 14 Dec 2023

Viewed by 950

Abstract

In total, 109 fish species (24,996 individuals) were sampled around Guadeloupe and Martinique Islands from October 2021 to September 2022 to estimate the morphometric relationships between total length and weight (Length Weight Relationship: LWR) of each fish species according to potential spatial, temporal [...] Read more.

In total, 109 fish species (24,996 individuals) were sampled around Guadeloupe and Martinique Islands from October 2021 to September 2022 to estimate the morphometric relationships between total length and weight (Length Weight Relationship: LWR) of each fish species according to potential spatial, temporal and sex differences. Of these species, this is the first time that the LWR was estimated in the Atlantic Ocean for 16 species. There is a significant relationship between length and weight for all tested species. For 83 tested species, the sex effect on the LWR showed significant sexual dimorphism for 24 species. Additionally, a link between the temporal effect and the reproduction period was tested for 68 species, of which 35 presented significant differences relative to the annual quarter of sampling. Finally, the geographical effect (i.e., the difference between samples from around Guadeloupe Island and those from Martinique Island) was significant for 60 species. This island effect was significant for 25 species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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25 pages, 7518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Acute Bisphenol A Toxicity on the Hematological Parameters, Hematopoiesis, and Kidney Histology of Zebrafish (Danio rerio)

by Svetlana Smorodinskaya, Nikita Kochetkov, Kirill Gavrilin, Dmitry Nikiforov-Nikishin, Diana Reznikova, Aleksey Vatlin, Anastasia Klimuk, Maya Odorskaya, Alexei Nikiforov-Nikishin, Andrey Ponomarev, Maria Marsova and Valery Danilenko

Animals 2023, 13(23), 3685; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13233685 - 28 Nov 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1288

Abstract

In this study, the results of evaluating the acute toxicity of Bisphenol A on Danio rerio are presented, encompassing peripheral blood parameters, the composition of hematopoietic cells of erythroid and myeloid lines in the head kidney, and data from histological studies. The LC50 [...] Read more.

In this study, the results of evaluating the acute toxicity of Bisphenol A on Danio rerio are presented, encompassing peripheral blood parameters, the composition of hematopoietic cells of erythroid and myeloid lines in the head kidney, and data from histological studies. The LC50 values of Bisphenol A for adult zebrafish individuals for 12, 24, and 48–96 h were determined, which were 18.04, 7.55, and 6.22 mg/L, respectively. The study includes data on the morphology and quantitative frequency of specific cells in the hematopoietic tissue of the head kidney, along with the consideration of adaptive mechanisms in hematopoiesis under BPA exposure. The application of polynomial regression analysis to reveal the concentration–effect relationship for some hematological and histological parameters was demonstrated. Significant increases in the frequency of erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities were observed at BPA concentrations of 6 and 8 mg/L, which indicates a genotoxic effect. BPA’s impact on fish peripheral blood parameters manifested as an increase in the number of erythrocytes (RBC) and immature erythrocytes, as well as a decrease in the number of lymphocytes. The most notable pathological changes in the head kidney’s hematopoietic tissue included circulatory disturbances and the formation of inflammation/degradation foci, as confirmed by histopathologic indices. At BPA concentrations of 2 and 4 mg/L, the observed changes were compensated for by hematopoietic adaptation mechanisms; however, at concentrations of 6 and 8 mg/L, acute systemic toxicity was evident. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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14 pages, 2906 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of clasp2 Transcription Pattern in Male Germ Cells during Spermatogenesis: A Comparative Study in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) and Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)

by Serena Ricci, Maurizio Lazzari, Maria Gabriella Maurizii, Valeria Franceschini, Liliana Milani and Pietro Cacialli

Animals 2023, 13(23), 3617; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13233617 - 22 Nov 2023

Viewed by 887

Abstract

Cytoplasmic linker-associated protein-2 (CLASP2) is a member of the CLIP-associating proteins (CLASPs) family involved in the structure and function of microtubules and Golgi apparatus. Several studies performed using different mammalian and non-mammalian model organisms reported that CLASP2 controls microtubule dynamics and the organization [...] Read more.

Cytoplasmic linker-associated protein-2 (CLASP2) is a member of the CLIP-associating proteins (CLASPs) family involved in the structure and function of microtubules and Golgi apparatus. Several studies performed using different mammalian and non-mammalian model organisms reported that CLASP2 controls microtubule dynamics and the organization of microtubule networks. In Drosophila and mice, an important role of CLASP2 during the development of germ cell lines has been uncovered. However, no study has clearly defined its role during fish germ cell differentiation. In the present study, we used two excellent aquatic animal models among teleost fish: zebrafish (Danio rerio) and guppy (Poecilia reticulata). Using qPCR, we found that the clasp2 transcript level is significantly high in the testis of both fish. Then, by in situ hybridization, we localized the clasp2 transcript in the spermatozoa of zebrafish and the spermatozeugmata of guppy. Our data suggest a potential role for this gene in the last stage of spermiogenesis in fish. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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11 pages, 1442 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Transportation on Stress Response and Cellular Oxidative Stress Markers in Juvenile Meagre (Argyrosomus regius)

by Martina Bortoletti, Elisa Fonsatti, Federico Leva, Lisa Maccatrozzo, Cristina Ballarin, Giuseppe Radaelli, Stefano Caberlotto and Daniela Bertotto

Animals 2023, 13(20), 3288; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13203288 - 21 Oct 2023

Viewed by 859

Abstract

In aquaculture, the transportation of live fish is a crucial but stress-inducing practice, necessitating a thorough understanding of its impact on fish welfare. This study aimed to assess the physiological stress response of meagre (Argyrosomus regius) juveniles during a 24 h [...] Read more.

In aquaculture, the transportation of live fish is a crucial but stress-inducing practice, necessitating a thorough understanding of its impact on fish welfare. This study aimed to assess the physiological stress response of meagre (Argyrosomus regius) juveniles during a 24 h commercial transport by quantifying muscle cortisol levels using a specific radioimmunoassay. Additionally, an immunohistochemical approach was used to detect and localize the cellular distribution of oxidative-stress-related biomarkers within various tissues and organs. The results demonstrated a significant increase in muscle cortisol levels following the loading procedure, remaining elevated above basal levels throughout the 24 h transport period. This effect may be attributed to either insufficient time for recovery from the loading stress or prolonged transportation-related stress. Immunostaining for all the antibodies we examined was observed in multiple tissues and organs, but we found no notable variations among the various transport phases. In conclusion, the observed stress response appears to be mainly linked to loading stress and the transport process itself, emphasizing the importance of implementing appropriate operational procedures to safeguard fish well-being during transport. Nonetheless, the unaltered distribution of oxidative stress markers between the control and transported groups suggests that the experienced stress might be within tolerable limits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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13 pages, 1744 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Morphology, Histology, and Histochemistry of the Digestive Tract of the Marbled Flounder Pseudopleuronectes yokohamae

by Jeong-Hyeon Cho, Jin Woo Park, Yong-Woon Ryu, Kang-Woong Kim and Sang-Woo Hur

Animals 2023, 13(5), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13050936 - 05 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2729

Abstract

This study investigated the morphological, histological, and histochemical characteristics of the digestive tract of the marbled flounder (Pseudopleuronectes yokohamae). The relative length of the gut of the marbled flounder digestive tract was 1.54 ± 0.10 (n = 20), and it [...] Read more.

This study investigated the morphological, histological, and histochemical characteristics of the digestive tract of the marbled flounder (Pseudopleuronectes yokohamae). The relative length of the gut of the marbled flounder digestive tract was 1.54 ± 0.10 (n = 20), and it had a simple stomach and 6–9 pyloric caeca. The mucosal folds of the marbled flounder digestive tract exhibited a general branched morphology. The thickness and mucosal fold length of the intestinal muscularis externa showed similar aspects in all areas. The thickness of the intestinal muscularis externa was the thickest in the posterior intestine portion, and the length of mucosal folds was the longest in the anterior intestine portion. It was indicated that food digested by gastric acid in the stomach moves to the anterior portion (including pyloric caeca) and mid portion of the intestine, ensuring effective stimulation of cholecystokinin (CCK)-producing cells. In addition, the distribution pattern of CCK-producing cells in the intestine was very similar to that of mucus-secreting goblet cells. The CCK-producing cells and goblet cells in the marbled flounder were well-adapted to promote optimal control of the digestive process. Based on the morphological and histochemical studies, it was concluded that the marbled flounder displays a digestive tract comparable to that of fish species with carnivorous habits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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15 pages, 1432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physicochemical and Biochemical Properties of Trypsin-like Enzyme from Two Sturgeon Species

by Abbas Zamani, Maryam Khajavi, Abdolmohammad Abedian Kenari, Masoumeh Haghbin Nazarpak, Atefeh Solouk, Mina Esmaeili and Enric Gisbert

Animals 2023, 13(5), 853; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13050853 - 26 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2361

Abstract

This work aimed to determine the physicochemical and biochemical properties of trypsin from beluga Huso huso and sevruga Acipenser stellatus, two highly valuable sturgeon species. According to the results obtained from the methods of casein-zymogram and inhibitory activity staining, the molecular weight of [...] Read more.

This work aimed to determine the physicochemical and biochemical properties of trypsin from beluga Huso huso and sevruga Acipenser stellatus, two highly valuable sturgeon species. According to the results obtained from the methods of casein-zymogram and inhibitory activity staining, the molecular weight of trypsin for sevruga and beluga was 27.5 and 29.5 kDa, respectively. Optimum pH and temperature values for both trypsins were recorded at 8.5 and 55 °C by BAPNA (a specific substrate), respectively. The stability of both trypsins was well-preserved at pH values from 6.0 to 11.0 and temperatures up to 50 °C. TLCK and SBTI, two specific trypsin inhibitors, showed a significant inhibitory effect on the enzymatic activity of both trypsins (p < 0.05). The enzyme activity was significantly increased in the presence of Ca⁺² and surfactants and decreased by oxidizing agents, Cu⁺², Zn⁺², and Co⁺² (p < 0.05). However, univalent ions Na⁺ and K⁺ did not show any significant effect on the activity of both trypsins (p > 0.05). The results of our study show that the properties of trypsin from beluga and sevruga are in agreement with data reported in bony fish and can contribute to the clear understanding of trypsin activity in these primitive species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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15 pages, 3931 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Morphological and Ultrastructural Study of the Anterior Digestive Tract of Adult Nile Tilapia Oreochromis niloticus

by Antonio Palladino, Elena De Felice, Chiara Attanasio, Carmela M. A. Barone, Antonio Crasto, Livia D’Angelo, Daniela Giaquinto, Claudia Lambiase, Paola Scocco, Francesco Serrapica and Lucianna Maruccio

Animals 2023, 13(3), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030420 - 26 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2598

Abstract

Among the most-used fish species in aquaculture is the Nile tilapia, due to its rapid growth rate and its adaptation to a wide range of farming conditions. A careful description of the morphology of the digestive tract, particularly the esophagus and stomach, allows [...] Read more.

Among the most-used fish species in aquaculture is the Nile tilapia, due to its rapid growth rate and its adaptation to a wide range of farming conditions. A careful description of the morphology of the digestive tract, particularly the esophagus and stomach, allows a better understanding of the relationship between structure and function. Combining scanning and light microscopy we highlighted the presence of five different zones in the stomach (1: esophagus-gastric lumen passage; 2: descending glandular portion; 3: fundic portion; 4: ascending glandular portion; 5: gastric-pyloric transition portion). Histochemical investigation showed a secretion of carboxylates mucopolysaccharides along the esophagus and sulphated complex carbohydrates in the stomach. These results suggest that mucins play a protective role of the epithelial lining, which is essential for a correct digestive process. Finally, the characterization of the main cellular structures may be inspiring for more advanced studies aiming to decipher the role of specific molecules, such as neuropeptides, involved in the physiological digestive process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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13 pages, 2841 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Research on Intestinal Functions of Wild and Cultured Hemibarbus maculatus in Jialing River

by Bangyuan Wu, Hong Lei, Jie Zhen, Limin Zhao, Baolin Song and Yu Zeng

Animals 2023, 13(2), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13020189 - 04 Jan 2023

Viewed by 1602

Abstract

Hemibarbus maculatus is a common economic fish in the midstream and downstream of the Jialing River. In order to resolve the difficulties in aquacultural cultivation, we tested the intestinal and liver digestive function of wild and cultured Hemibarbus maculatus. Histological methods and [...] Read more.

Hemibarbus maculatus is a common economic fish in the midstream and downstream of the Jialing River. In order to resolve the difficulties in aquacultural cultivation, we tested the intestinal and liver digestive function of wild and cultured Hemibarbus maculatus. Histological methods and special biochemical staining methods were used to compare the differences of morphological structure, goblet cells, argyrophil cells, lymphocytes and Na⁺/K⁺ATPase in the intestine, and the morphological structure, glycogen and lipid in the liver between the two kinds of Hemibarbus maculatus. The results showed that higher amount of fat was found to attached to the gut, lower Na⁺/K⁺ATPase vitality in the foregut and hidgut (p < 0.01) and lower number of goblet cells in the hindgut (p < 0.01) of the cultured Hemibarbus maculatus when compared to the wild ones. The number of the argyrophilic cells did not show significant differences between the two kinds, but the number of lymphocytes was significantly lower in the segments of gut in cultured. This suggests the absorptive function and intestinal immunity are weaker in the cultured Hemibarbus maculatus. In addition, more glycogen and lipid were found in the liver of cultured fishes, which indicates the decreased digestive function of the cultured Hemibarbus maculatus. In conclusion, the intestinal digestion, absorption and lymphocytes level of the wild are generally better than those of the cultured, and more hepatic lipopexia and glycogen are present in the cultured ones. Future aquacultural activities should consider these changes when facing pragmatic problems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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Review

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39 pages, 548 KiB

Open AccessReview

Histomorphological Changes in Fish Gut in Response to Prebiotics and Probiotics Treatment to Improve Their Health Status: A Review

by Giuseppe De Marco, Tiziana Cappello and Maria Maisano

Animals 2023, 13(18), 2860; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13182860 - 08 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1677

Abstract

The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) promotes the digestion and absorption of feeds, in addition to the excretion of waste products of digestion. In fish, the GIT is divided into four regions, the headgut, foregut, midgut, and hindgut, to which glands and lymphoid tissues are [...] Read more.

The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) promotes the digestion and absorption of feeds, in addition to the excretion of waste products of digestion. In fish, the GIT is divided into four regions, the headgut, foregut, midgut, and hindgut, to which glands and lymphoid tissues are associated to release digestive enzymes and molecules involved in the immune response and control of host-pathogens. The GIT is inhabited by different species of resident microorganisms, the microbiota, which have co-evolved with the host in a symbiotic relationship and are responsible for metabolic benefits and counteracting pathogen infection. There is a strict connection between a fish’s gut microbiota and its health status. This review focuses on the modulation of fish microbiota by feed additives based on prebiotics and probiotics as a feasible strategy to improve fish health status and gut efficiency, mitigate emerging diseases, and maximize rearing and growth performance. Furthermore, the use of histological assays as a valid tool for fish welfare assessment is also discussed, and insights on nutrient absorptive capacity and responsiveness to pathogens in fish by gut morphological endpoints are provided. Overall, the literature reviewed emphasizes the complex interactions between microorganisms and host fish, shedding light on the beneficial use of prebiotics and probiotics in the aquaculture sector, with the potential to provide directions for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

21 pages, 831 KiB

Open AccessReview

How Do Alternative Protein Resources Affect the Intestine Morphology and Microbiota of Atlantic Salmon?

by Lucia Aidos, Giorgio Mirra, Margherita Pallaoro, Valentina Rafaela Herrera Millar, Giuseppe Radaelli, Chiara Bazzocchi, Silvia Clotilde Modina and Alessia Di Giancamillo

Animals 2023, 13(12), 1922; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13121922 - 08 Jun 2023

Viewed by 2378

Abstract

The availability and cost of fishmeal constitute a bottleneck in Atlantic salmon production expansion. Fishmeal is produced from wild fish species and constitutes the major feed ingredient in carnivorous species such as the Atlantic salmon. These natural stocks are at risk of depletion [...] Read more.

The availability and cost of fishmeal constitute a bottleneck in Atlantic salmon production expansion. Fishmeal is produced from wild fish species and constitutes the major feed ingredient in carnivorous species such as the Atlantic salmon. These natural stocks are at risk of depletion and it is therefore of major importance to find alternative protein sources that meet the nutritional requirements of the Atlantic salmon, without compromising the animals’ health. Terrestrial animal by-products have been used in aquaculture feed, but their use is limited by the lack of several essential amino acids and consumer acceptance. In the case of plant ingredients, it is necessary to take into account both their concentration and the extraction methodologies, since, if not dosed correctly, they can cause macro- and microscopic alterations of the structure of the gastrointestinal tract and can also negatively modulate the microbiota composition. These alterations may compromise the digestive functions, growth of the animal, and, ultimately, its well-being. An updated revision of alternative protein sources is provided, with the respective impact on the intestine health in terms of both morphology and microbiota composition. Such information may constitute the premise for the choice and development of Atlantic salmon feeds that guarantee fish health and growth performance without having a significant impact on the surrounding environment, both in terms of depletion of the fish’s natural stocks and in terms of pressure on the terrestrial agriculture. The sustainability of aquaculture should be a priority when choosing next-generation ingredients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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18 pages, 1416 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Basal and Post-Stress Circulating Cortisol Concentration in an Important Marine Aquaculture Fish Species, European Sea Bass, Dicentrarchus labrax

by Athanasios Samaras

Animals 2023, 13(8), 1340; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13081340 - 13 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1802

Abstract

Background: European sea bass is a species characterized by high and dispersed cortisol levels. The aim of the present study was to analyze all published data on basal and post-acute stress cortisol levels in this species. Methods: For this systematic review and meta-analysis [...] Read more.

Background: European sea bass is a species characterized by high and dispersed cortisol levels. The aim of the present study was to analyze all published data on basal and post-acute stress cortisol levels in this species. Methods: For this systematic review and meta-analysis the Web of Science and Scopus databases were searched for papers reporting plasma or serum cortisol levels in E. sea bass, without language or date restrictions. Data were extracted directly for the reported results and were analyzed separately for basal and post-acute stress levels, as well their standardized mean differences (SMD) using random-effects meta-analyses. Results: Of 407 unique records identified, 69 were eligible. Basal cortisol levels had a pooled effect of 88.7 ng mL⁻¹ (n = 57), while post-acute stress levels were 385.9 ng mL⁻¹ (n = 34). The average SMD between basal and post-stress was calculated to be 3.02 (n = 22). All analyses had a high between-study heterogeneity. Results for basal and post-stress levels were affected by the assay type and anesthesia prior to blood sampling. Conclusions: Cortisol levels in E. sea bass are higher than most studied fish species and display large heterogeneity. Application of stress led to elevated cortisol levels in all studies examined. In all cases, sources of between-studies heterogeneity were identified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Physiological Research on Fish)

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