Liver Energy Metabolism ofAnguilla anguillaafter Exposure to Fenitrothion

This paper deals with the effect of fenitrothion (0.04 mg/liter) on the energy metabolism of the European eel,Anguilla anguilla, and its recovery from intoxication. Various parameters such as glycogen, lactate, proteins, total lipids, and glucose in eel liver and blood were analyzed after 2, 8, 12, 24, 32, 48, 56, 72, and 96 h of fenitrothion exposure. Subsequently, the fish were allowed recovery periods of 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, 144, and 192 h in clean water, and the same parameters were evaluated. Liver glycogen and lipid contents decreased significantly during the exposure, while blood glucose levels increased markedly. Liver and blood lactate values increased during pesticide exposure, while proteins were decreased in comparison to unexposed controls. Most of the metabolic disorders did not persist after less than a week of recovery in clean water. The observed effects of fenitrothion on fish metabolism are discussed in relation to a stress syndrome, and probable reasons for alterations are also discussed.