International eel symposium, 2003 - Quebec August 11, 2003
Poster Session

Effects of Water Temperature Changes on the Endogenous and Exogenous Rhythms of Oxygen Consumption in Glass Eels Anguilla japonica

Kim, W.S.* Marine Environment and Climate Change Laboratory, Korea Ocean Research and Development Institute, Ansan, PO Box 29, Seoul 425-600, Korea waskim@kordi.re.kr;
Yoon, S.J. Marine Environment and Climate Change Laboratory, Korea Ocean Research and Development Institute, Ansan, PO Box 29, Seoul 425-600, Korea
Moon, H.T. Department of Oceanography, Chungnam National University, Taejon 305-764, Korea
Lee, T.W. Department of Oceanography, Chungnam National University, Taejon 305-764, Korea

Presenter email address: waskim AT kordi.re.kr

Abstract Text: The oxygen consumption rate (OCR) of glass eels Anguilla japonica was measured to determine the effects of water temperature changes on their endogenous and exogenous rhythms. Glass eels were exposed to different water-temperature patterns during simulated 12, 14 and 24 h cycles. The OCR of wild glass eels exhibited a clear endogenous circatidal rhythm while kept in constant darkness at 15+/-0.1^o C. However, if the temperature was varied, the glass eels OCR coincided with the gradually increasing water temperature ((Delta)t = 1 ^oC per 12 or 24 h) in the experimental chamber. This minor variation in water temperature ((Delta)t = 1^o C per 12, 14 or 24 h) was significant enough to affect the rhythmicity of the glass eels' OCR. The results indicate that the glass eels' OCR is controlled not only by an endogenous circatidal rhythm, but also by exogenous rhythms related to small environmental changes, such as water temperature changes of as little as 1 ^oC. The possible mechanisms underlying these temperature responses are discussed and the implications of the findings for the eco-physiology and metabolic activity rhythms of glass eels are highlighted.