Changes in hepatic mixed-function oxygenase (MFO) activity, plasma steroid levels and age at maturity of a white sucker ( Catostomus commersoni) population exposed to bleached kraft pulp mill effluent

Abstract

The impacts of bleached kraft mill effluent (BKME) on a white sucker ( Catostomus commersoni) population were examined during May, July and August 1989, and compared with two reference sites. At the time of this study, the effluent received only primary treatment. BKME-exposed white sucker exhibited increased liversomatic indices and elevated mixed-function oxygenase (MFO) activity in both July and August. They also showed lower gonadosomatic indices and an increased age to maturity. The females contained fewer eggs at maturity, while the males had reduced development of secondary sexual characteristics. These fish also had severe reductions in plasma steroid levels throughout the year, including testosterone, and 17α,20β-dihydroxyprogesterone in both sexes, as well as 11-ketotestosterone in males and 17β-estradiol in females. BKME-exposed white sucker were shorter, older and had decreased growth rates compared to those at the reference sites. These fish also exhibited an increased condition factor, yet showed decreased visceral lipid stores. Relative to those at the reference sites, the stomach contents of the BKME-exposed fish revealed reduced numbers of organisms per gut, reduced taxa per gut and an increased number of empty stomachs. The decreased energetic commitment to reproduction, along with the increased condition factor, suggested a disruption in metabolic capability and altered energy allocation in fish exposed to BKME.