Variations in hemocyte counts in the mussel, Mytilus edulis: similar reaction patterns occur in disappearance and return of molluscan hemocytes and vertebrate leukocytes.

It was asked whether variations in hemocyte counts in a mussel can be explained by mechanisms known to govern the leukocyte number in vertebrates. Hemolymph of 25 freshly collected Mytilus edulis contained (4.2±1.

Heart rate and hemocyte number as stress indicators in disturbed hibernating vineyard snails, Helix pomatia.

In humans and other vertebrates, mental or physical stressors may trigger a variety of symptoms generally referred to as the fight/flight response (Cannon 1929). The processes also include variability of the heart frequency as well as leukocytosis. We monitored both body responses in disturbed hibernating vineyard snails, H.

Soluble and surface-bound aminopeptidase in eosinophilic blood cells from Mytilus edulis.

This study focused on soluble and surface-bound aminopeptidase (AP) in hemocytes from Mytilus edulis and on the identification of the enzyme-producing blood cells. The cell extract hydrolyzed alanine p-nitroanilide (Ala-pNA) with an optimum between pH 6.4 and 7.

Phylogeographic patterns in populations of the black-chinned tilapia complex (Teleostei, Cichlidae) from coastal areas in West Africa: support for the refuge zone theory.

Within the tilapiines, a major African cichlid lineage, quite limited genetic informations are available on phylogenetic interrelationships and phylogeographical patterns at both macro- and micro-evolutionary scales. The present study examines the genetic diversity of the black-chinned tilapia complex from coastal areas in West Africa (Senegal to Congo-Brazzaville) based on mtDNA control region sequences. Phylogenetic inferences provide support for the monophyly of both taxa involved.