Date of Award
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
October 2026
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Milton, Sarah L.
Abstract
The channelized Kissimmee River experiences seasonally low dissolved oxygen levels which have changed the ecosystem to favor air-breathing species, while gamefish populations have declined greatly. In 2001 , the central portion of the river (Pool C) was physically restored. To evaluate the usefulness of various stress markers and assess the success of the partial restoration, the stress responses were analyzed (brain monoamines, heat shock proteins, and plasma cortisol) of air-breathing fish (bowfin, Florida gar), versus gamefish (largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish). Fish were collected from hypoxic and normoxic water at three sites in the Kissimmee River. Statistical analysis (MANOV A) showed overall significantly higher stress response in hypoxic gamefish than those in normoxia, with higher hsp72 levels, DOPAC, and Dopamine turnover (DOPAC:DA). Hsp60 and cortisol was significantly higher only in hypoxic bass while serotonin and 5-HIAA were significantly higher in hypoxic bluegill sunfish. Air-breathers did not show higher stress levels during hypoxia.
Extent
55 p.
Recommended Citation
Dirk, Lynda J., "Markers of Hypoxic Stress in Fishes of the Kissimmee River" (2006). Electronic Theses and Dissertations 2000 - 2009. 1100.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general_5/1100
Identifier
FA00000747
Comments
Includes bibliography.|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2006.|Charles E. Schmidt College of Science|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.