CARBOHYDRATE SPECTRUM IN ORGANS OF CRAYFISH, ORCONECTES LIMOSUS AND ITS VARIATIONS DURING YEAR

1. The concentrations of low-molecular carbohydrates and polysaccharides in the organs of both sexes of the crayfish, Orconectes limosus have been determined during the year. In autumn, spring and some hours after molt the mono- and oligosaccharides and the constituents of polysaccharides were identified by thin-layer chromatography and their quantities determined. The results are summarized in the Tables 2, 3 and 4. Taking into account the function of each individual organ, the results are discussed with regard to accumulation, reproduction and molt. 2. The following mono- and oligosaccharides were found: Glucose, galactose, fructose, trehalose, maltose, maltotriose, maltotetraose, maltopentaose, glucosamine, N-acetylglucosamine, glucuronic acid, and as constituents of polysaccharides: Glucose, galactose, fucose, glucosamine, galactosamine and glucuronic acid. The total concentration of carbohydrates generally did not exceed 25 mg/g fresh weight but may be less than 1 mg/g. 3. During the course of the year distinct changes can be noted regarding the total concentration and composition of carbohydrates. The accumulation was most intensiv during winter, depletion in early spring. Molt did not cause a similar effect. 4. Accumulation of carbohydrates occurs to a great extent in trehalose and maltosesaccharides; glycogen is of less importance. Muscle and hepatopancreas are the most important reservoirs. The highest carbohydrate levels were found in the heart. © 1969 Springer-Verlag.