Haematological Changes in the Mudfish, Clarias gariepinus (Burchell) Exposed to Malachite Green

Abstract

The effect of sublethal concentrations of malachite green on blood compositions of the mudfish, Claris gariepinus (Burchell) was investigated under static bioassays during a 10 week exposure periods. Concentrations of malachite green used were 0.00 (control), 5.00, 10.00, 15.00, 20.00 and 25.00 µg1-1. The exposure led to anaemic response in the fish, this response was observed to be time and dose dependent. There was significant reduction in the neutrophils of the fish exposed to 15.00, 20.00 and 25.00 µg1-1. of the toxicant. The implications of these results were discussed with a suggestion of the total on the use of malachite green in aquaculture.

Journal of Aquatic Sciences Volume 14, April 1999, pp. 37-42




KEY WORDS:

Haematological, mudfish, Clarias gariepinus, malachite green.