Effects of ultraviolet light on immune parameters of the roach

Ultraviolet B radiation penetrates into water and can affect fish health and the immune system, as is the case with mammals. Teleost fish, the roach, were exposed to UVB irradiation in aquariums and a panel of immune parameters was determined. In addition to altered blood picture and respiratory burst by blood leukocytes, changes were noted also in major lymphatic organs. Respiratory burst and natural cytotoxicity activity of head kidney granulocytes and mitogen-activated proliferation of splenic lymphocytes were suppressed. Although mostly transitory, some parameters remained suppressed for the following 2 weeks. Ultraviolet A radiation had only minor effects. The stress induced by UVB may…