12-23-2010, 08:25 PM
"Apparently the gills can be subject to cold damage."
I have heard this too, (and again with no studies to back it up) but keep in mind that a large percentage of the fishes blood supply is pumping through those gills. The strong FLOW of blood through the gills will confer a protective property against freezing. The delicate membranous layer where oxygen is exchanged could be at risk of harm if directly contacted by ice or snow (or ground or grass) however.
[signature]
I have heard this too, (and again with no studies to back it up) but keep in mind that a large percentage of the fishes blood supply is pumping through those gills. The strong FLOW of blood through the gills will confer a protective property against freezing. The delicate membranous layer where oxygen is exchanged could be at risk of harm if directly contacted by ice or snow (or ground or grass) however.
[signature]