Influence of cadmium ions on some morphofunctional and immune-physiological parameters of perch (<Emphasis Type="Italic">Perca fluviatilis</Emphasis>, Perciformes,Percidae) underyearlings

The changes in some morphofunctional and immune-physiological parameters in perch (Perca fluviatilis) underyearlings exposed to sublethal cadmium chloride concentration have been analyzed. The fluctuations of kidney index values and stimulating effect of toxicant upon humoral factors of nonspecific immunity have been revealed. The leucocytes ratio has been changed most sharply in the peripheral blood, kidney, and liver, but directions of changes in blood, liver, and kidney were different. Suppression of spontaneous and enhancement of induced phagocytosis by blood neutrophils were noted. In general, the observed changes correspond well to nonspecific stress response. It is concluded that the studied parameters are quite sensitive indices for assessment of environmental toxicity to fish.