This study aimed to evaluate the effects of handling stress on
ventilation and Na+ metabolism in inanga. Specifically, Na+ influx
and efflux were evaluated directly after handling and subsequently
following a 24 h recovery period. The effect of handling stress on
copper absorption (using a concentration of 500 g Cu L−1) was also
evaluated by measuring total body copper levels following similar
handling treatments. Quantifying the effect of stress is important
in establishing acclimation periods necessary for laboratory studies
examining branchial physiology;