Abstract

ABSTRACT The effects of aluminum on the ability of Tilapia zillii to regulate their electrolyte states in plasma were investigated in acidic water (pH 5.5). Two levels of concentrations (25 and 50 μg/L) of aluminum chloride were added to water for 48 and 96 hours respectively. The aim of this study was to understand the effects of the interaction between aluminum and low pH on the ionic balance. Plasma sodium and chloride of fish exposed to acidic water and aluminum were significantly different from the control groups after 48 and 96 hours of exposure. These results indicate that sublethal levels of aluminum can alter the ionic balance of fishes living in acidified fresh waters.