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The CO2/pH ventilatory drive in fish.

¹Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ont, K1S 5B6, Ottawa, Canada. kgilmour@ccs.carleton.ca

Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. Part A, Molecular & Integrative Physiology

|September 7, 2001

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Fish ventilation is primarily driven by oxygen levels. However, recent research indicates that carbon dioxide (CO2) and pH also directly stimulate fish breathing, challenging long-held assumptions.

Area of Science:

Physiology
Aquatic Biology
Comparative Respiratory Systems

Background:

Traditionally, oxygen (O2) has been recognized as the primary driver of ventilation in fish.
This O2 drive is mediated by O2 receptors in the gills, influenced by water's lower O2 capacitance compared to CO2.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the accumulating evidence for a CO2 and/or pH-keyed ventilatory drive in fish.
To explore the potential mechanisms and receptors involved in this alternative respiratory control pathway.

Main Methods:

Review of existing experimental evidence on fish respiratory control.
Analysis of studies investigating ventilatory responses to varying CO2 and pH levels.

Main Results:

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Evidence supports a CO2/pH-keyed ventilatory drive in fish, acting independently of O2 levels.

While O2 status can be indirectly affected by CO2/pH, direct stimulation of ventilation by CO2/pH is also indicated.

Branchial CO2-sensitive chemoreceptors, particularly those with external orientation, are implicated, though internal receptors remain under investigation.

Conclusions:

The established O2-driven model of fish ventilation requires re-evaluation.
CO2 and pH represent significant, direct stimuli for fish respiration.
Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role and location of CO2/pH receptors in fish gills.