In the carp, the absorption of fat from the food occurs at the level of the enterocytes of the proximal region of the intestine. The absorbed fat gives rise to the presence of two forms of inclusions: lipid particles and lipid droplets. These two forms, whose precise significance is unknown, definitely play different roles in fat absorption. Only lipid particles are involved in direct transport of absorbed fatty acids into the blood circulation. Lipid droplets seem to be involved in the temporary storage of fatty acids.
Key words Intestine (Teleost) - Enterocytes - Absorption - Lipid
This study was carried out with the electron microscope of the Department of Plant Biology (Professor Leredde) kindly placed at our disposal by Mr. B. Lugardon. We are also grateful to Mrs. A. Rup for her technical assistance.