Effects on dogfish haematology and liver composition after acute copper exposure

1. Dogfish Scyliorhinus canicula was subjected to experimental acute copper pollution. At the lowest concentration no changes were recorded on haemoglobin levels whilst decreases of the erythrocyte number and haematocrit was found. 2. At higher concentrations near to the lethal doses, a general reduction of all blood parameters was observed. 3. Liver composition (protein, glycogen and lipid levels) was not affected by any copper concentration, over the duration of the experiments. 4. Results are discussed in relation to physiological responses of fish, acute concentration and metal action.