Measurement of Sub-Lethal Toxicity and Effect of Kerosene Pollutant on Hematological Profile of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus)

Background and Objectives: The study measured the impact of crude oil fractions and its derivatives like kerosene on the early life and sub-adults growth of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus in terms of mild, acute and chronic toxicity effect. It also examines the effect of indiscriminate spillage of crude oil derivatives on aquatic organisms.

Materials and Methods: Blood profiles such as Red Blood Cell count (RBC), White Blood Cell count (WBC), Blood Differentials, Hemoglobin, (HB), and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) of the treated fishes and control were estimated after exposure of the fish to the kerosene pollutant. Behavioral changes in fish exposed to8.0ml/l, 16.0ml/l, 25.0ml/l and 50.0ml/l of kerosene pollutant varied from erratic swimming, moribund movement, jumping and lack of balance.

Results: At concentration 8.0ml/L, mean total mortality was observed within 72hours of exposure. The lethal concentration (LC50) was 8.0ml/L and highest mean mortality observed with 80% kerosene pollutant. PCV of the exposed fish was 26% when compared to the control 27%, HB was 8.9 gdl as against 9.0 gdl in the control. Total WBC was 640 x 109/L as against 1280 x 109/L in control. RBC reading was 2.1 compared to 5.3 mm3 of the control. Lymphocyte was 80%, Neutrophil was 4% and monocyte 16% compared to 62%, 8% and 30% in control respectively. There was decrease in white blood cells counts for 8.0, 16.0, 25.0 and 50.0ml/L groups (p<0.05) compared to the control.

Conclusion: The study concludes that it is necessary to ensure the safety of aquatic life forms especially fishes, by minimizing aquatic pollution with kerosene to sustain fish food quality, availability and security.