ABSTRACT. The effect of different salt concentrations (0, 1, 3, or 6
g/L table salt) in the water for transport on survival and on Na+ and K+
body levels of fingerlings of the freshwater silver catfish, Rhamdia
quelen, was analyzed. Mortality increased with time of transport and
salt concentration, with a significant correlation between these parameters.
The water containing 6 g/L salt increased body levels of Na+,
compared to other treatments from 6 to 12 hours. Body levels of K+ of
fingerlings transported in water with 1, 3, and 6 g/L salt decreased from
6 to 12 hours, compared to the treatment without the addition of salt.
These results indicate that the water for transport of silver catfish fingerlings
should not contain salt. Since dissolved oxygen levels decreased
to low levels, it is suggested that time of transport should not
exceed 12 hours.