Multiple Biomarkers Variability in Lead Exposed Fresh Water Fish (Clariasgariepinus)

Abstract

Background: Heavy metals are the most important pollutants of the aquatic ecosystems as they are present throughout the ecosystems. Freshwater environments are constantly being impacted by heavy metals mostly from untreated effluent discharged from industrial sites, some agricultural practices, and daily activities. Because it harms humans and aquatic biota, toxic heavy metal pollution of the water is a serious concern. Methods: The current study examined the effects of sublethal lead levels (0.0, 0.4, and 0.8 mg/l) on the African catfish's serum metabolites, enzyme activity, and other factors following a 21-day exposure period. The activities of Glutamic Oxaloactic Transaminase (GOT), Glutamic PyruvateTransaminase (GPT), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Creatinine, and Urea in the fish's serum were examined in subadults of the African catfish Clariasgariepinus. Results: At the 0.05 probability level, statistical ANOVA results revealed a significant difference (P<0.05) between the experimental groups and the control for all parameters analysed. Conclusion: Organ dysfunction, enzyme inhibition, metabolic impairment, and organ damage were all brought on by the toxicant (lead). It is clear from the overall results that these biochemical parameters changed significantly on exposure to Lead. As a result, this study demonstrates that these biochemical measurements can be essential biomarkers for examining heavy metal pollution.