Abstract

Anaphylactic type reactions occurred in channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus R) and goldfish (Carassius auratus) following immunization and challenge with several protein antigens. The reactions were specific for the sensitizing antigen and could be passively transferred to non-sensitized recipients with serum from sensitized fish. In channel catfish the reaction consisted of disorientation, vertical swimming, increased opercular movement and gasping. In the goldfish, the reaction consisted of clamping of the fins except the pectorals, loss of equilibrium, and increased defecation. Some deaths occurred in the channel catfish, but none occurred with the goldfish.

Notes

Four criteria for proof of immediate-type hypersensitivity:

1. Specific for antigen
2. Passively transferred with serum
3. 10 days between doses
4. Histamine causes the same reaction - this has not been demonstrated in fish. Histamine may not be the major factor in fish.

Clinical signs:

Channel goldfish - occurred 5-10 minutes after antigen injection. Erratic swimming, disorientation, settle on bottom, increased ventilation, gasping, flared operculum and fins, S posture, death.

Goldfish - disoriented, contracted dorsal fin, defecation, settle on bottom.