Changes in Total Protein and Transaminase Activities in Clarias Gariepinus Exposed to Diazinon

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess the effects induced by diazinon on total protein and transaminase activities in Clarias gariepinus, a common Niger Delta wetland fish. Fish were exposed to varying sub-lethal concentrations of diazinon (1.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mg/I). Values decreased as the concentration of the toxicant increased. Plasma total protein and total protein in all organs tested were significantly lower (p<0.05). Plasma alanine amino transferase (ALT) increased at some treatment levels contrary to aspartate amino transferase (AST) in plasma. Activities of ALT and AST decreased as the concentration of diazinon increased in all the organs tested; hence, the effects were dose dependent. It is obvious from this study that diazinon negatively affects total protein and transaminase activities in Clarias gariepinus.