Spectral sensitivity of cones in the goldfish, Carassius auratus

The spectral sensitivities of retinal cones isolated from goldfish (Carassius auratus) retinas were measured in the range 277-737 nm by recording membrane photocurrents with suction pipette electrodes (SPE). Cones were identified with lambda(max) (+/- S.D.) at 623 +/- 6.9 nm, 537 +/- 4.7 nm, 447 +/- 7.7 nm, and about 356 nm (three cells). Two cells (lambda(max) 572 and 576 nm) possibly represent genetic polymorphism. A single A(2) template fits the alpha-band of P447(2), P537(2), and P623(2). HPLC analysis showed 4% retinal:96% 3-dehydroretinal. Sensitivity at 280 nm is nearly half that at the lambda(max) in the visible. The lambda(max) of the beta-band (in nm) is a linear function of the lambda(max) of the alpha-band and follows the same relation as found for A(1)-based cone pigments of a cyprinid fish. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.