CONTROL OF THE SALT-SECRETING GLAND OF THE DUCK: I. OSMOTIC REGULATION

Abstract
The osmotic regulation of the salt gland secretion was studied in the domestic duck. The response to the intravenous infusion of 5% sodium chloride (850 meq Na per liter) was established in unanesthetized ducks. Sodium bicarbonate (892 meq Na/l) produced a salt gland secretion similar to that after 5% sodium chloride, except that it was accompanied by a moderate diuresis. Mannitol and sucrose had similar effects. On the other hand, urea, ammonium chloride, dextran, and meralluride produced only a small amount of salt-gland secretion of low electrolyte concentration. Antidiuretic doses of Pitressin did not induce secretion of the salt gland.