Effects Of Exposure To Sublethal Concentrations Of Azadirachta Indica On The Fingerlings Of Clarias gariepinus

Abstract

The physiological impairment on the fingerlings of Clarias gariepinus when exposed to sublethal concentrations of Azadirachta Indica was investigated. The fish were exposed to concentrations of 1.25, 2.50, 5.0, 10.0, 20.0 ML -1 for the period of 12 weeks. The crude protein content decreased with increased concentration of toxicant. Similarly, the red blood cells haematocrit and liver glycogen values, all fell below those of the control (fish which were held in water without toxicant) There was also hyperglycemia (increased blood glucose), gills and liver damage, minor necrosis and vacuolation in the liver cells, all culminated into reduced weight in the exposed fish.

Keywords: Sublethal concentrations, Azadirachta indica, fingerlings, Clarias gariepinus, toxicity.

Tropical Freshwater Biology Vol. 16 (2) 2007: pp. 21-26