Fish Physiology, Volume 30 The Multifunctional Gut of Fish

About this book

Provides a comprehensive synthesis and an integrative overview of the range of gut functions and their implications for organismal physiology. The highly diversified anatomy and functions of the gut, including nutrient uptake, immune barrier function, salt and water homeostasis and respiration, as well as neuroendocrine actions and control are covered in detail by leading authors. In addition, this volume explores the pronounced implications of gut function for whole animal integrative physiology and compensatory demands for non-gastrointestinal organs.

As the first comprehensive reference to discuss the diverse morphological and functional adaptations of the gut, this volume provides an excellent resource for comparative physiologists, aquaculturists and biomedical researchers employing fish as model organisms for mammalian physiology. It includes chapters dedicated to anatomical and functional features of the gastro-intestinal tract of fish as well as integrative aspects of gut organ function. It also includes in-depth coverage of recently recognized implications of feeding on salt homeostasis and acid-base balance. It provides syntheses of implications of gut function for homeostasis.

Contents

Diversity in morphology, anatomy and histology of the gastrointestinal tract in relation to phylogeny, feeding habits and environment; Feeding, digestion and absorption of nutrient, micronutrients and minerals; Barrier function and immunology; The role of the gastrointestinal tract in salt and water balance; The role of feeding in salt and water balance; Implications of GI function for gas exchange, acid-base balance and nitrogen metabolism; The GI tract as an endocrine/neuroendocrine/paracrine organ; The enteric nervous system; Mesenteric circulation and respiration of the GI tract; The GI tract in air breathing and nitrogen excretion

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