Effects of starvation on the fine structure of the hepatopancreas in the common prawn Palaemon serratus (pennant)

Abstract

The ultrastructural changes in the hepatopancreatic cells of the common prawn Palaemon serratus (Pennant), induced by starvation were examined. The following observations were made: 1. 1. The fine structure of storage lipid cell (R-cell) and of protein producing cell (F-cell) was mainly affected. 2. 2. Fewer secretory cells (B-cells) were present in the tubule of starved specimens. 3. 3. The absorption mechanism and protein synthesis were disturbed. 4. 4. The most affected organelles were the mitochondria and the rough endoplasmic reticulum.