The cilioexcitatory effects of 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT) has been observed in Mytilus. Its presence has been demonstrated by photofluorometry, bioassay and paper chromatography. Enzymes have been proved to exist not only for the biosynthesis of 5-HT, but also for its oxidation. The evidence thus far indicates that 5-HT is the principal endogenous cilioexcitatory substance involved in the nervous control of ciliary activity in the gill of Mytilus. The available evidence suggests that the decrease in 5-HT after administration of p-chlorophenylalanine(PCPA) is mediated by a decrease in the synthesis of 5-HT resulting from an inhibition of the rate limiting enzyme, tryptophan hydroxylase. Investigators propose that PCPA is incorporated into tryptophan hydroxylase at or near the active site and is responsible for the irreversible inhibition which persists for several days. The present study investigates the effect of PCPA on potassium(K) enhancement of ciliary activity.