The influence of pH on embryonic development of common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)

Abstract

Eggs of Cyprinus carpio were incubated in acidic and alkaline water. The effect of pH on embryonic development was observed. Acidification and alkalization caused disturbances in cleavage and blastula formation and delay of hatching. At pH 4.5 and 10.5 there were no live eggs in 24 h after fertilization. Mortality during the development indicate that the most sensitive stages are: embryos in the first period after fertilization, hatching larvae and newly hatched larvae. This study indicates that embryonic development of carp is possible within the range of pH 5.0-9.5 although at the extreme pH levels certain disturbances and increased mortality occured.