Textbook Of Fish Endocrinology

The discovery and study of the biological action of substances possessing hormonal properties comprise a considerable step towards a more comprehensive illustration of fish physiology. Fish in their vast majority do not constitute merely the most populous and phylogenetically oldest vertebrate group of organisms, but also a constant source of information regarding the mode of action of physiological and endocrinological processes of the phylogenetically evolved vertebrates, including mammals and humans. Although cells with neurohormonal properties have been identified in fish during the first decades of the 20th century, it is only over the past thirty years that these cells have been the object of intensive research efforts which, at an ever accelerating pace, are attaining a number of significant goals. This book presents current research in the study of fish endocrinology.

During the past two decades, fish endocrinology has witnessed exciting developments due to our increased knowledge at all levels of biological organizations, including molecular biology, cell biology, physiology and behavior. New insights into development, neurobiology, immunology and molecular genetics closely correlated with classical aspects of endocrinology and represent important contributions to our knowledge on regulatory processes of vertebrates, including fish. The purpose of this book is to overview major advances in numerous research areas of fish endocrinology. Most of the chapters not only review and discuss the state-of-the-art in the respective field, but also show perspectives of future research. The book will be of interest to scientists involved in basic fish research, comparative endocrinology, fisheries and aquaculture as well as for students of fish biology.

The study of fish neuroendocrinology has had a significant impact on our general understanding of the functional roles and evolution of a variety of neurochemical messengers and systems. Not only do fish possess unique neuroendocrine features, they have also been and remain an important vertebrate models for the discovery of new neuropeptides. In the last fifty years, neuroendocrinologists have documented a complex and seemingly infinite number of interactions between hormones and nerve structures. Gradually emerging from this knowledge is an understanding of the specific neurohormonal pathways and the messengers responsible for maintaining homeostasis in an aquatic environment and for regulating the functional systems that allow for the highly diverse life histories and reproductive tactics of fish Despite its recent growth, breadth and unique attributes, there is no single text covering the discipline of fish neuroendocrinology. In fact, other than a few mammalian neuroendocrinology textbooks, there is a serious lack of texts in comparative neuroendocrinology. Currently, information on the anatomical organization and function of the various neuroendocrine systems in fish is only available in original research papers and reviews. By providing a current and comprehensive volume that highlights the specific properties of fish neuroendocrinology, this book will go beyond being the only reference text for fish neuroendocrinologists and will also serve comparative physiologists, endocrinologists, neuroanatomists and behaviourists interested in understanding the reciprocal actions between the nervous and endocrine systems. Highlights the specific properties of fish neuroendocrinology Emphasises the range and variety of interactions between neurobiology and endocrinology Discuses both anatomical and functional aspects of the Neuroendocrine system Also serves comparative physiologists, endocrinologists, neuroanatomists and behaviourists interested in understanding the reciprocal actions between the nervous and endocrine systems

The book Fish Endocrinology is an excellent book comprising eleven chapters which deal with the structural details and physiology of the various endocrine glands in Cyclostomes, Elasmobranchs and Teleosts. It is one of the best expositions for teachers and research workers interested in fish endocrinology all over the world. Latest references concerned, have been cited in this book and contributions of Indian workers have also been frequently incorporated. The illustrations include some beautiful microphotographs also. In the last chapter, Prospects for Future Research has been discussed which is of great value for the researchers. This book will definitely be an asset for the libraries. Contents: Chapter 1: The Adrenal Gland, Chapter 2: The Pituitary Gland, Chapter 3: The Thyroid Gland, Chapter 4: The Endocrine Pancres and Gastro-intestinal Hormones, Chapter 5: Gonads and their Hormones, Chapter 6: The Pineal Organ, Urophysis, Ultimobranchial Organ and Corpuscles of Stannius, Chapter 7: The Pheromones, Chapter 8: Hormones, Migration and Osmoregulation, Chapter 9: Hormones and Aquaculture, Chapter 10: Hormones and Skin Pigmentation, Chapter 11: Prospects for Future Research.