Muscle lipid content and lipase activity in the liver and digestive tract of some freshwater fishes (Pisces: Teleostei)

Abstract

Lipid content of the muscle and activity of lipase enzyme in the liver and digestive tract of Lates niloticus, Citharinus citharus and Auchenoglanis occidentalis were studied. The highest lipid content (14%) was recorded in A. occidentalis adults, while the lowest lipid content was observed in L. niloticus juveniles. Lipase activity was observed in the liver, anterior, median and posterior portions of the digestive tract of L. niloticus, C. citharus and A. occidentalis. The activity of lipase enzyme in the liver was high in the three fish species studied and the activity was statistically different. High lipid content of the muscle correlated with high activity of lipase in the liver of the fish species.

Keywords: lipase, lipid, liver, digestive tract

Journal of Aquatic Sciences Vol. 21(1) 2006: 5-8