[The use of the aquarium fishes Danio rerio and Poecilia reticulata as highly sensitive species for testing the carcinogenicity of chemical compounds].

Aquarium fishes Danio rerio and Poecilia reticulata are recommended as test-objects for testing carcinogenic chemical agents. 30 compounds were tested for their action on these objects. The analysis of the incidence of induced tumors, period of their appearance and Iball index shows high sensitivity of the aquarium fishes to the carcinogenic action. Data are presented on the dynamics of experimental carcinogenesis, morphology of induced tumours, as well as on modifications of carcinogenesis (the role of environmental temperature, age, dose, exposition, etc.). Advantages and limitations of the "fish model" are compared with those found in the experiments carried on mammals.