The Effect of Selenium on the Toxicity of Methyl Mercury in Medaka Embryos

Author

Peter H. Krauth, Indiana State University

Date of Award

Spring 5-1-1978

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Life Sciences

First Advisor

Norman Dial

Second Advisor

William Hopp

Third Advisor

Jean Schoknecht

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to investigate the effect of selenium upon methyl mercury poisoning in Medaka fish (Oryzias latipes) embryos. Selenium has been shown to provide a protective mechanism against mercury poisoning in some adult animals. Three experiments were done. In the first, selenium and methyl mercury were put directly in the growing medium of the eggs. In the second experiment, selenium was included in the diet of the parent fish. In the third part, methyl mercury exposure was delayed three days. The results of the first experiment were quite dramatic and showed a significant difference when selenium was added to the methyl mercury in the growth medium. A definite protective effect was seen. The results of the second part showed that selenium was excreted in the eggs and provided a short term protection. The third part showed that the critical time for exposing the eggs to methyl mercury was during the first three days of development.

Recommended Citation

Krauth, Peter H., "The Effect of Selenium on the Toxicity of Methyl Mercury in Medaka Embryos" (1978). All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3468.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/etds/3468