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Acidification of lakes in Canada by acid precipitation and the resulting effects on fishes

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Abstract

In the Sudbury region of Ontario, Canada, fallout of sulfur oxides has been shown to be responsible for damage to vegetation, lakes and fishes.

The acidic fallout has been shown to effect a rate of acidification in many lakes that over several decades has resulted in the extinction of many species of fishes. Fish exhibit profound differences in acid tolerance but show some similarities in their physiological response to levels within the range of their individual susceptibilities. Prior to extinction most females of a particular species did not release their ova to be fertilized. The failure of females to spawn was coincident with an inability to maintain normal serum Ca levels. In some species growth was reduced despite an adequate supply of preferred food items. High concentrations of acid were considered to be the principal factor stressing the fish populations. Elevated concentrations of some heavy metals may add to the stress caused by high concentrations of acid.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Fisheries and Marine Service, Department of the Environment, Pacific Biological Station, P.O. Box 100, V9R 5K6, Nanaimo, British Columbia

    Richard J. Beamish

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  1. Richard J. Beamish
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Beamish, R.J. Acidification of lakes in Canada by acid precipitation and the resulting effects on fishes. Water, Air, and Soil Pollution 6, 501–514 (1976). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00182888

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00182888

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