Physiology of Finfish and Shellfish (2+1)

4.3.1.3 Fat Digestion

The lipids are organic substances insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like chloroform, ether and benzene. They form important dietary constituents on account of high caloric value and the fat soluble vitamins and the essential fatty acids contained in them. The main enzyme which acts on this lipid is lipase. This enzyme is found in pancreas and mucosa of fishes. Lipase converts the fats into fatty acids and glycerols.

Absorption

Absorption is the taking up of the compounds by the body either through the stomach lining or through the intestinal walls. The digested food material is thrown out as excreta or faecal matter. The amount of food absorbed by the fish is determined by the difference between the amount ingested and excreted.