Synergistic effect of copper and lead uptake by fish

Paracheirodon innesi was exposed (simultaneously or sequentially) to copper and lead in varying concentrations in a synthetic water solution. Metal ac cumulations in fish gills and the fish (without gills) were measured at the end of the exposure period. Results of the exposure experiment indicated t hat lead seems to facilitate the uptake of copper and vice versa when the e xposure process is simultaneous. In the case of sequential exposure first t o copper for 7 days then to lead for 20 days, lead accumulations in the fis h and the gills were enhanced by copper, indicating a possible alteration o f the physiological absorption process. The synergistic effects observed du ring either simultaneous or sequential exposure experiments can be describe d using logistic equations. (C) 1999 Academic Press.