GET THE APP

 

Abstract

HO Nwamba, CD Nwani, VS Njom and LC Ani

Profenofos is a broad spectrum insecticide used in agriculture for treatment of ectoparasitic disease and pests. The study investigated the toxicity and effects of profenofos (O-4 bromo-2-chlorophenyl-O-ethyl-S-propyl phosphorothioate) on the oxidative stress biomarkers of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings. There were concentration and duration – dependent mortalities in C. gariepinus exposed to profenofos. The 96 h LC50 value estimated by probit analysis was 0.03 mg/L. Based on the 96 h LC50, fish were exposed to two sublethal concentrations of profenofos (1/10th of 96 h LC50=3.00 μg/L) and 1/5th of 96 h LC50=6.00 μg/L). The liver tissue was analyzed on day 1, 7, 14 and 21 for the assessment of oxidative stress biomarkers. The results show that the lipid peroxidation (LPO) values were elevated in C. gariepinus exposed to the sublethal concentrations of profenofos throughout the duration of the experiment. The antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione S-transferase activity increased with increase in concentration and exposure duration when compared with the control. The present study showed that profenofos pesticide is toxic and elevated LPO values and the oxidative stress parameters in Clarias gariepinus. Profenofos should be prudently used in terrestrial and aquatic eco-system to avoid eco-toxicological hazards.

PDF

Share this article