The distributions of dopamine D 1 and D 2 receptors were studied in intact goldfish retina with in vitro autoradiography. Specific [ 3 H]SCH 23390 binding (D 1 receptors) was greatest over the outer plexiform layer (OPL)/horizontal cell bodies and less so over the inner nuclear and inner plexiform layers (IPL). Specific [ 3 H]spiperone binding (D 2 receptors) appeared in two bands, over the OPL/horizontal cell bodies and the IPL. Depletion of retinal dopamine, by intraocular injections of 6-hydroxydopamine, had no effect on the pattern and density of [ 3 H]SCH 23390 binding; however, specific [ 3 H]spiperone binding over the OPL and IPL was virtually eliminated, suggestive of D 2 autoreceptors on dopamine interplexiform cells. These data are consistent with electrophysiological studies indicating the presence of D 1 and D 2 receptors in both plexiform layers of the goldfish retina.