Selenium compounds in the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas)--II. Quantitative approach to gastrointestinal absorption, routes of elimination and influence of dietary pretreatment.

Following administration by gavage [75Se]selenate and [75Se]selenite were absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) at 94 and 80% efficiency, respectively. Approximately 12% of the [75Se]selenate administered by i.p. injection was eliminated via the urine, and across the gill within 2 hr. The urine was the primary route of elimination followed by the gill. The bile contained significantly lower amounts of 75Se than that eliminated either across the gill or in the urine. The mucus is capable of binding significant amounts of 75Se. Dietary pretreatment with selenite reduced the retention of a subsequent [75Se]selenite dose administered by gavage.