[Lipid composition of the muscles and liver of Mediterranean fish].

Studies have been made on lipid composition of the liver, white and red skeletal muscles in 9 species of Mediterranean fishes (Scomber scomber, Scomberesox saurus, Trachurus trachurus, T. mediteraneus. Sprattus sprattus, Engraulis engrasicholus, Diplodus annularis, Gadus merlangus, Scorpaena porcus). Lipids were fractionated by means of thin layer chromatography. It was shown that the content of lipids in red muscles is significantly higher than in white ones. Muscles of highly active species are richer in lipids as compared with those in species which are characterized by lower functional activity. In fishes with high muscle activity, lipids exhibit a higher triglyceride content. Tissue concentration of lipids is closely related to the degree of maturity of gonads. Ecological and physiological peculiarities of fishes significantly affect lipid characteristics of their tissues.