Copper is an essential trace metal which plays an important role in several fish metabolic functions. It represents a crucial role in several enzymatic processes (e.g. enzymes involved in cellular respiration, free radical defense, neurotransmitter function, connective tissue biosynthesis and other functions), as well as, into some structural proteins.
In latest years, environmental pollution from heavy metals has been intensively examined in freshwater ecosystems due to the bioaccumulation and toxicity of these metals. Regardless of its important role in cellular metabolism, copper (Cu) is of particular interest because it is extremely toxic for aquatic animals if elevated concentrations are introduced into the water. High copper levels can cause fast generation of reactive oxygen species. It also binds histidine, cystein- and methionine-containing proteins, resulting in dysfunction.
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