The effects of selenium on the distribution of mercury in the organs of the black bullhead ( Ictalurus melas)

Abstract

1. Following i.p. mercuric chloride injections, the mercury was deposited primarily in the kidneys. 2. Simultaneous selenium injections prevented mercury induced osmoregulatory failure even though selenium strongly promoted the movement of mercury to the kidneys and its deposition in an approximate 1:1 mercuric selenite ratio. 3. Whole-body retention of mercury was not altered by simultaneous subcutaneous injections of sodium selenite.