The properties of some emulsifiers in the digestive fluids of invertebrates

Abstract

1. 1. Curves for surface tension vs. concentration of emulsifiers from the intestinal juice of several invertebrates and their dependence on the salt concentrations have been determined. 2. 2. In Cancer pagurus L. the composition of the intestinal contents is favourable for a low critical micellar concentration of the emulsifiers and thus for solubilization and absorption of lipids. 3. 3. An emulsifier in the gut of an insect (Dytiscus) is demonstrated. 4. 4. The possible advantage of vertebrate bile as compared to the invertebrate emulsifiers is discussed.