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Abstract

Blood parameters are important indicators for assessing the health status of living organisms subject to changing environment. Blood parameters (Hb%, TEC, TLC, ESR, PCV, MCH, and MCV) of Heteropneustes fossilis exposed to lead were investigated at different time intervals. Acclimatized specimens were divided into four groups: Group-A (Control), Group-B (2.25 ppm), Group-C (2.65 ppm), Group-D (2.85 ppm) of Pb and examined at 7, 14, 21 and 28 days' time intervals. The maximum impact of the treated metal was observed on ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) [1.80 mm/h (Control) to 2.90 mm/h at 2.85 ppm of lead] during maximum time exposure (28 Days) whereas PCV (Packed Cell Volume) showed a fall [44.00 % (control) to 28.00% (2.85 ppm] at 28 Days pe (post-exposure). The other parameters also showed changes in their values when exposed to lead being highest at 2.85 ppm doses during maximum time exposure (28 Days). The above findings indicate that lead adversely affects the blood physiology as reflected in hematological values. INTRODUCTION: Water is an integral constituent of all living things, and it is the universal biological solvent. Modern industrial and agricultural techniques require the use of many million tons of fertilizers, heavy metals and pesticides. These effluents find their way into aquatic systems through surface runoff from industries or as a result of the discharge of these wastes into streams and rivers. They pose a constant threat to non-target organisms such as fish and insects and tend to bio-concentrate the inorganic and industrial wastes 1, 2 .