Glyphosate’s Effects on Juvenile African Catfish
Abstract:
Fish exhibit heightened sensitivity to a broad spectrum of agrochemicals, including glyphosate herbicide. The presence of these chemicals in aquatic ecosystems can result not only from deliberate discharge but also from sanctioned agricultural practices. In this study, we investigated the toxic impact of glyphosate on juvenile Clarias gariepinus weighing an average of 10.05 ± 1.50 g and measuring 10.75 ± 1.80 cm in length. The investigation spanned a 12-week duration, during which varying concentrations of the toxicant (0.00 mg/L [control] , 39.02 mg/L, 78.04 mg/L, 156.09 mg/L, 312.19 mg/L, and 624.39 mg/L) were administered. Replicated experiments were conducted to assess acute responses, encompassing mortality rates and behavioral changes, over a 96-hour period.
Conforming to established experimental protocols, we conducted analyses encompassing behavioral observations, hematological assessments, histopathological examinations, growth evaluations, and physico-chemical measurements. Employing the toxicant’s LC50 value of 151.36 mg/L, treatment percentages were calculated as follows: 0.00 mg/L [control] , 23%, 38%, 53%, 68%, and 83%, respectively. Evident alterations in both physical appearance and behavior among the exposed fish were observed in correlation with escalating toxicant concentrations. Notable effects included restlessness, uncoordinated movements, air gasping, skin discoloration, and eventual mortality.
Hematological scrutiny revealed a significant decrease in White Blood Cell (WBC) counts and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) with increasing toxicant concentrations. Hepatic investigations indicated an enlargement of hepatocytes, proportional to concentration and exposure duration, leading to substantial vacuolization and the presence of pyknotic nuclei. Additionally, focal necrosis was identified within hepatocytes. Skin assessments unveiled atrophying mucous cells, dense inflammatory cell presence, and necrotic epidermis.
Noteworthy growth in terms of weight and length was observed primarily in lower concentrations. The physico-chemical parameters exhibited dependence on both dosage and exposure duration. Overall, this study underscored the detrimental effects of glyphosate on exposed fish. Consequently, prudent measures must be taken to discourage or minimize the use of glyphosate near fish farms and aquatic environments.
Glyphosate’s Effects on Juvenile African Catfish, GET MORE, ACTUARIAL SCIENCE PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS
