Seasonal changes of free-radical initiated processes in cyprinids from the middle Volga river basin

The purpose of this research was to study the free radical induced lipid oxidation in the commonest fish species inhabiting the Volga river, in the Middle Volga region of the Russian Federation, de-pending on the seasons of the year. The commonest fish species in the Volga river basin: European carp Cyprinus carpio (L., 1758), sabrefish Pelecus cultratus (L., 1758), common bream Abramis brama (L., 1758), tench Tinca tinca (L., 1758), and common roach Rutilus rutilus (L., 1758) were studied. The level of malondialdehyde and the activity of catalase were investigated in gills, liver, muscles and gonads. The values of molecular oxidative biomarkers in the studied fish species were significantly higher in the summer, suggestinga more active lipid peroxidation. The increase in cata-lase activity in the studied organs may indicate activation of the antioxidant defense system that can positively affect the growth and development of fish

Ecological and Physiological Patterns of Selenium Migration Within the Volga River Ecosystem

The article presents the results of selenium migration analysis within river ecosystem. Maximal concentration of selenium was observed near Tomakovsky and Nazarovsky ravines within Saratov territory. The concentration of this microelement at the right river bank was slightly higher than at the left bank. The concentration of selenium in bottom soil ranged from 0.062–0.099 μg/g. Maximal concentration of microelement was found in clasping-leaved pondweed. Selenium concentration in fish bodies depends on their species and nutrition. Maximal concentration of microelement was found in crucian carps, and minimal – in rudds