Effect of different starvation and refeeding periods on macromolecules in the haemolymph, digestive parameters, and reproductive state in Aegla platensis (Crustacea, Decapoda, Aeglidae)

Abstract

In the present study we assessed the effects of different periods of starvation and refeeding on macromolecule levels (glucose, proteins, triglycerides, and glycerol) in the hemolymph as well as circulating levels of cholesterol in Aegla platensis. We also studied possible changes in the distribution of stomach fullness classes (DSFC), mean stomach fullness degree (SFD), and the mean stomach fullness, hepatosomatic, and gonadosomatic indices. Animals were collected in the field, sexed and divided into groups. This was made as follows: lab control (10 days on standard diet); 5, 15, and 30 days starvation; and 5 days refeeding. During the starvation period there were differences in cholesterol, glucose, and proteins in both genders, but we observed no differences in total lipid, triglycerides, or glycerol levels. The SFD was the lowest in the 30-day starvation group in both females and males. Starvation appears to modulate gastric emptying and possibly digestive processes as well as induce preferential utilization of carbohydrates and proteins. This enables survival throughout the study period. We observed maintenance of gonadosomatic index and reduction of hepatosomatic index in females during the study period with a return to baseline after refeeding. Refeeding was insufficient to restore the DSFC, but sufficient to restore glucose and cholesterol levels.