Effects of Atrazine on Some Electrolytes in the Plasma of Clarias Gariepinus Juveniles

Akinrotimi OA, Ikeogu CF, Onoja CR, Ayaobu-Cookey IK and Ugwu NJ

Published on: 2024-04-26

Abstract

Atrazine is a selective herbicide commonly used in agriculture to control weeds in the field. Given that herbicides could harm non-target species like fish, this study examined the effects of atrazine on some electrolytes such as Sodium (Na+), Calcium (Ca2+), Hydrogen carbonate (HCO3-), Potassium (K+), and Chloride (Cl-) in the plasma of the species Clarias gariepinus. The experiment was carried out to determine the levels of osmotic impairment in fish exposed to this chemical. A total of 150 juveniles of C. gariepinus of mean length (11.74±2.64cm) and mean weight (256.68±1.81g) were exposed to different concentrations (0.00-control, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20 mg/L) of Atrazine in a static non-renewal assay for a period of 96 hours. Blood was collected from the exposed fish at 0, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours and stored in heparinized bottles for electrolyte analysis. Blood samples were analyzed by standard laboratory methods. Results from the study indicated that the values of Na+, Cl- and K+ ions were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the exposed fish when compared to the control values. However, a significant reduction (P < 0.05) of HCO3- and Ca2+ was equally observed in the exposed fish. The results of this study showed that atrazine was toxic to the species in a dose-dependent manner. The findings of this study also suggest that this herbicide is hazardous to aquatic life and has negative consequences for non-target species when used indiscriminately. It is recommended that the herbicide be used with caution, especially near aquatic habitats, to maintain good water quality and ensure the sustenance of aquatic biodiversity.