An ultrastructural study of the leukocytes of the channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus.

Abstract

Ultrastructural studies on blood leukocytes of the channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, show the presence of heterophils (neutrophils), small lymphocytes, monocytes, and thrombocytes. Monocytes cannot always be distinguished from large lymphocytes. Cells resembling macrophages or transitional forms between monocytes and macrophages are occasionally seen. Blood eosinophils and basophils are not found. Thrombocytes and small lymphocytes are the most abundant leukocytes, while monocytes are the least frequently encountered leukocyte. Glycogen, present in all leukocytes, is most abundant in heterophils and least abundant in monocytes. Although monocytes are similar to heterophils in size and shape, a greater amount of rough endoplasmic reticulum, free ribosomes, and fewer granules are observed in monocytes. Heterophils possess oval or elongate granules, which often contain a crystalline or striated structure; small tubules which resemble smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and cristae which traverse the long axes of the mitochondria are frequently seen. Small lymphocytes are characterized by the presence of pseudopodia, many free ribosomes, numerous large mitochondria, dictyosomes (Golgi), and long profiles of rough endoplasmic reticulum. The dictyosomes are often associated with a large zone of exclusion. Bundles of microtubules are observed near the elongated ends of thrombocytes. Deep indentations of the plasmalemma, which give the appearance of vacuoles, are also seen in thrombocytes.