Some effects of adrenaline on anion transport and nitrite-induced methaemoglobin formation in the rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri Richardson)

The effects of adrenaline on branchial anion transport and nitrite-induced methaemoglobinaemia have been investigated in rainbow trout. Nitrite uptake and efflux results suggest that adrenaline effects a net anion efflux principally by stimulation of the unidirectional branchial anion efflux. In oxygenated whole blood nitrite-induced methaemoglobin was significantly reduced in the presence of adrenaline. The physiological and environmental consequences of nitrite-induced stress are discussed.