The effect of hypophysectomy on physiological color change in Fundulus heteroclitus

Abstract

Thirty-eight Fundulus heteroclitus were tested for ability to adapt to white and black backgrounds. They were then hypophysectomized and distributed individually to white and black containers. Their ability to adapt to background was determined for periods up to 2 weeks. Sixteen operated fish retained their preoperative ability to adapt; 8 became dark temporarily; 14 became persistently dark. Histological examination confirmed the result of the operation. In the third group of fish the persistent darkness was not associated with damage to specific areas of the brain although damage was more widespread in this group. It is concluded that hypophysectomy does not interfere with physiological color change in F. heteroclitus. The location of the central relays in the melanophore system could not be determined.