Some Haematological Effects of Crude Oil on Freshwater Catfish,Heteropneustes fossilis (BLOCH) |
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| Authors: | M S Prasad P Prasad D Singh |
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| Abstract: | The exposure of catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis to different concentrations (200, 500, 700, 1000, 1500, 2000 ppm) of crude oil extract for a varying period (for up to 48 h in lethal extract and 360 h in sublethal one) resulted into a number of haematological changes. All the parameters taken here were found to have been increased except the haemoglobin level which fell down to 14.3 % in an acute lethal concentration (2000 ppm) after 48 h of exposure. The haematocrit value increased significantly (12 %) in 2000 ppm. The blood sugar level showed hyperglycemia in all the concentrations. The increase in ascorbic acid (28 %) was pronounced in higher concentrations. Changes occurring in different parameters seemed to be reversible as all the parameters returned to their normal levels after returning the fish to normal media, except the nuclear swelling which did not resume the normal functioning even after a prolonged treatment (1 month or more) in the recovery jar. The haematological effects shown by the crude oil resembled partly those kept in severe hypoxic conditions and partly to the fishes poisoned by heavy metals (Cu and Zn). On the basis of results obtained in this investigation, crude oil may be categorised as a complex toxic agent. |
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