Hajek G.J., Kłyszejko B., Dziaman R., Paczkowska E., 2004. The effects of Propiscin on the cardiac rate of isolated heart of common carp, Cyprinus carpio L. Acta Ichthyol. Piscat. 34 (2): 145-153.

Background. The use of anaesthetics in aquaculture requires conducting specific physiological studies of its effect on fish. The objective of this study was to evaluate the direct effect of Propiscin (IRS Olsztyn, Poland) on the rate of isolated heart of common carp.

Materials and methods. The activity of isolated, perfused heart was recorded using an electrocardiograph. Propiscin was applied at concentrations of 2, 10, and 100 mlּl-1 of perfusion medium.

Results. The study revealed a stimulating effect of Propiscin applied at a concentration of 10 mlּl-1, a depressing effect being recorded at a concentration of 100 mlּl-1. No effects were observed at the Propiscin concentration of 2 mlּl-1.

Conclusion. It has been concluded that bradycardia accompanying the anaesthesia evoked by Propiscin at concentrations of 1 and 2 mlּl-1 of water is not a result of direct effect of Propiscin on the carp′s heart.

Keywords: fish, anaesthesia, Propiscin, etomidate, isolated heart, common carp