Histochemical localization of alkaline and acid phosphatase activities in the skin ofMystus (Mystus) vittatus Bl. (Siluriformes)

Summary An attempt has been made to localize alkaline and acid phosphatase activities in the skin ofMystus vittatus by using histochemical techniques. The alkaline phosphatase activity is found in metabolically active cells such as basal columnar cells, mucous cells and polygonal support cells. The acid phosphatase activity is intense in the outermost squamous support cells and in the basal columnar cells. These activities have been correlated with some physiological functions of the epidermis.Acknowledgment. We are thankful to P. Vishwanatham, Government College, Mhow, and Dr R.S. Shrivastava, Holkar Science College, Indore, for providing laboratory facilities and to the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, New Delhi, for a fellowship for M.S.