Blood Erythrocytic And Leucocytic Components Of <i>Heterobranchus bidorsalis</i> Juveniles Stocked In Water Polluted With Crude Oil Fractions

Abstract

The blood erythrocytic (RBC) and leucocytic (WBC) components of Heterobranchus bidorsalis juveniles exposed to different concentration of crude oil fract ons were studied Two study periods namely the toxicity and recovery periods were adopted. Lubricating engine oil (LBO), Bonny-light crude oil (BLCO), Kerosene (DPK) and premium motor spirit (PMS) were respectively applied at four concentrations 1 00, 2 00, 4.00 and 8.00 ml L i. .. i i f. . .-1 ,. Lower numbers of RBCs were recorded in fish samples exposed to the crude oil fract ons than in the control fish. The comparatively high RBCs in fish during the 4 days toxicity per od than during 42 days recovery periods is attributed to the greater destruction o RBCs during the toxicity period. The 4 00 ml L-1 LBO and BLCO concentration were apparently preferred by the fish to maintain a higher number of RBCs than with 1.00, 2.00, and 8.00 ml L-1 concentrations. Similarly, the 8.00 ml L-1 concentrations of DPK and PMS gave better values of RBCs than the 1 00, 2.00 and 4 00 ml L-1 concentrations. Reduced number WBCs in the fish blood during the toxicity period at concentrations of 1.00, 4.00 and 8.00 ml L-1 LBO; was recorded likely the phagocytic action of the WBCs.