Published in Scientific Papers. Series D. Animal Science, Vol. LXVIII, Issue 2
Written by Angelica DOBRE, Desimira Maria STROE, Maricel Floricel DIMA, Christian STEINBERG, Ionela Florentina TOMA (ENACHE), Carmen Georgeta NICOLAE
Climate change has significant effects on aquatic ecosystems, including the health and immunity of freshwater fish. As ectotherms, fish rely on the surrounding environment to regulate their body temperature. Elevated water temperatures impose physiological stresses, and prolonged heat exposure can compromise their immune system, making them more susceptible to infections and mortality. The capacity of fish to cope with these elevated temperatures depends on prior acclimation, but once the thermal threshold is surpassed, the stress becomes critical and may lead to local extinction in vulnerable species. This review analyses the effects of elevated temperatures on fish immune mechanisms. It highlights how rising temperatures influence inflammatory responses, increase pathogen susceptibility, and alter immune gene ex-pression. Additionally, it discusses changes in physiological barriers and adaptive responses essential for fish survival in warming environments. The paper underscores the importance of studying fish immunity in the context of climate change, emphasizing the need for strategies to preserve aquatic biodiversity. Understanding how elevated temperatures impact fish immunity is important for developing sustainable resource management practices.
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