Effects of Acid Stress on Reproductive Functions in Immature Carp, Cyprinus Carpio

Changes in plasma cortisol, estoradiol-17β (E2) and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) levels under chronic acid exposure were examined to clarify the endocrinological effects of lowered environmental pH on gametogenesis in immature and gonadal developing carp, Cyprinus carpio. Plasma cortisol levels increased markedly 3 hours after the acid exposure and high levels were maintained for 48 hours, and then gradually decreased. Plasma E2 levels were significantly elevated and peaked at 1 week after the acid exposure. After that, E2 levels decreased gradually, but remained at significantly higher levels than the control group even at 4 weeks after the exposure. Plasma 11-KT levels showed no significant change throughout the experiment. These results indicate that acidic water disrupts the endocrine system that may have adverse effects on gametogenesis in freshwater fish.