Prostaglandins in aquatic fauna: a comprehensive review

The presence and role of prostaglandin moieties in aquatic fauna have been a subject of study for only the last 15 yr. This review discusses the occurrence and physiological functions of these autocoids in a broad range of marine and freshwater fauna. The role of prostaglandins of the E and A series, in particular, in osmoregulation and mineral transport has been studied in several marine invertebrate phyla demonstrating analogy to the roles of these compounds in renal hemodynamics, diuresis, and electrolyte balance in higher terrestrial vertebrates. Prostaglandins of the F series have been implicated in the spawning and hatching processes in a number of marine invertebrates. These findings are discussed in parallel to the body of evidence impl~cat ing prostaglandins of the E and F series in the reproductive physiology and spawning behavior of a number of teleosts studied. Many of the advances leading to the present state of knowledge of eicosanoid biology in marine and freshwater fauna stem from advances in analytical methodology for the quantitative and qualitative study of these bioactive compounds. Despite these advances, progress in the field of eicosanoid biology in aquatic fauna has proceeded at a slow pace compared to that In terrestrial fauna, leaving significant gaps In current understanding of the roles of these compounds in numerous aquatic species. Continued research in this fleld holds promise for the marine biologist and biochemist, as well as the maricultur~st , if ongoing attempts to monltor and control the cultivation and reproduction of certain aquatic species is to be successful in the future.