Variations in antifreeze activity and serum inorganic ions in the eelpout Zoarces viviparus: antifreeze activity in the embryonic state

Abstract

The eelpout Zoarces viviparus is a common inhabitant in the shallow waters along the Danish coastline. Specimens were caught in the brackish (12–16‰) Roskilde fjord where water temperatures range from >20°C during summer to subzero in winter. The serum melting points found in Z. viviparus varied between −0.76 (September) to −0.94°C (January). Eighty to 97% of the serum melting points could be attributed to sodium, chloride and potassium. Hysteresis freezing points showed seasonal variation varying from −0.83 (September) to −2.08°C (February). Serum antifreeze activity showed a seasonal variation with high levels (>1.2°C) in winter and low levels (<0.1°C) during summer and autumn. Antifreeze proteins are responsible for this antifreeze activity. Antifreeze activity was also found in Z. viviparus during their embryological development in the female ovary. Embryo thermal hysteresis reached the maximum level (approx. 0.6°C) during December and maintained this level until parturition in January. Antifreeze activity seems unaffected by diminishing ice crystal fractions at ice fractions below 0.1 whereas ice fractions above 0.1 caused a decline in antifreeze activity.