Metabolic adaptations of Crustaceans to environmental oxygen deficit

Abstract

The oxygen levels in water are fundamental importance in the distribution of life, especially the animals. Oxygen is one of the most important gases in the dynamics and the characterization of aquatic ecosystems where it could cause a reduction in their levels (hypoxia) or even the absence (anoxia). The tolerance to hypoxia/anoxia is highly variable among animals. In crustaceans were identified adaptive strategies that allow the survival of the species can be highlighted: the use of anaerobic pathways for ATP production, maintenance of high concentrations of glycogen and phosphate under aerobic and metabolic depression. The use of anaerobic glycolysis pathways is the fundamental way to produce ATP. The strategy of metabolic depression is a very common mechanism used by animals to cope the environmental stress and for many species, this is the primary strategy. The maintenance of high concentrations of glycogen and phosphate is also an adaptation made by several species of crustaceans to hypoxia/anoxic. Beyond tolerance to this environment, animals must contend with periods of recovery to normal levels of oxygen. The recovery phase is important for the replenishment of energy reserves and the removal of the finished products stored. Research on the adaptations of species, mainly metabolic, are essential to a better understanding of the mechanisms used by the species to survive in environments with low oxygen levels.