Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä have found that exposure to manganese sulphate (MnSO4) affects zebrafish differently based on their life-history traits. The study focused on two types of life-history strategies: fast-growing fish, which are characterized by rapid juvenile growth, early maturation, and smaller size, and slowly growing fish, characterized by slower juvenile growth, later maturation, and greater size. The study revealed that MnSO4 exposure slows down the growth of zebrafish and lowers their condition factor, an indicator of well-being. However, the effects were more pronounced in fish with a fast life-history strategy.
These fish grew more slowly, had a lower condition factor, and ate less compared to their slow-growing counterparts when exposed to high concentrations of MnSO4. Researcher Silva Uusi-Heikkilä, who led the study, emphasized the importance of considering the historical aspects of the world in environmental risk assessments and conservation strategies. The findings show that MnSO4 can impair growth and stress in fish and that differences in life-history traits play an important role in the stress response. This study highlights the need to consider fishing practices and environmental contaminants when assessing impacts on fish stocks. The research was funded by the Emil Aaltonen Foundation, and the group of Prof. Anna Koparinen conducted. These findings shed light on the adaptation and survival of fish populations in polluted environments.
