Multiple Haemoglobins of the Atlantic Salmon ( Salmo salar )

• Published in: Journal of the Fisheries Research Board of Canada
• Main Author: Wilkins, N. P.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Canadian Science Publishing 1968
• Subjects: General Medicine; Canada; Greenland; Atlantic salmon; Salmo salar
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/f68-235; http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/f68-235

The haemoglobins of over 500 salmon of different lengths, from Scotland, Greenland, and Canada have been analysed by vertical starch–gel electrophoresis at pH 8.1. Complex ontogenetic variations, involving an initial increase and later reduction in the number of fractions evident, have been observed among the anodally migrating haemoglobins. The variations observed have been correlated with changes in length, and the complete development of the anodal haemoglobin complex from the single fraction of small fish to the nine-fraction pattern of adults is outlined. The individual haemoglobin fractions appear to represent structurally distinct molecules whose regulated occurrence at different phases of the life cycle is discussed at the individual and population levels.