MALATE-DEHYDROGENASE ISOZYMES IN 15 SPARIDAE SPECIES (PERCIFORMES, TELEOSTEI)

1. MDH isozymes were analyzed in seven different tissues in 15 Sparidae species using electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing. 2. Species-specific patterns of enzymatic activity were identified with the sole exception of Sparus aurata and S. pagrus which showed the same pattern, thus indicating their close ties. 3. Marked differences in tissue distribution of the different MDH isozymes were found between the species. 4. The results are related to genetic, physiological and environmental factors.