The effects of in vivo acclimation temperature on the fatty acid composition of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) peripheral blood cells.

Channel catfish were acclimated in vivo to 12, 17, 22 or 27 degrees C and their peripheral blood erythrocytes, thrombocytes, T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes assayed for cellular fatty acid composition. Excepting cells from 12 degrees C acclimated fish, all cells responded to acclimation to lower temperatures by exhibiting increased levels of phospholipid unsaturated fatty acids. Although temperature independent differences were observed between erythrocytes, thrombocytes and lymphocytes, no differences between T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes were seen.