The effects of forced activity on circulating catecholamines and pH and water content of erythrocytes in the toad

In vivo experiments were carried out to determine the effect of forced activity on circulating catecholamine levels, haematocrit, and the pH and water content of erythrocytes in the toad, Bufo marinus. In addition, the effect of the beta-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol on erythrocyte pH and water content was examined in vitro. Forced activity caused a significant decrease in both whole blood and erythrocyte pH, while haematocrit and circulating adrenaline and noradrenaline levels increased. Erythrocyte water content did not change following forced activity. Addition of isoproterenol to toad blood in vitro had no effect on either erythrocyte pH or water content. The apparent absence of beta-adrenergic effects on erythrocyte pH and water content in the toad is in sharp contrast to the response of teleost fish erythrocytes to beta-adrenergic stimulation. The significance of these differences is discussed.