The caudal neurosecretory system of Platichthys flesus: General morphology and responses to altered salinity

Abstract

1. The general morphology of the caudal neurosecretory system of the flounder is described. 2. Immunocytochemical staining and quantification of peptides within the spinal cord, associated with the last eight pre-terminal vertebrae, indicate spatial separation of urotensin II (UII) and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)/urotensin I (UI) producing cells. 3. Quantification of urophysial peptides indicates that tissue levels are elevated in seawater (SW) compared with freshwater (FW) adapted fish.