Lead induced histological alterations in ovarian tissue of freshwater teleost Mastacembelus pancalus (Hamilton)

Abstract

The Indian freshwater eel, Mastacembelus pancalus (Ham) was chronically exposed to lead nitrate for 30 days exposed at a dose of LC20 value 18.5 mg/l (in respect to 925ppm 96-h LC50 value). Results show reduced fecundity and GSI and deteriorated ootoxic conditions. Oolytic alteration includes lesion of oocytes, which resulted in dearth of any interfollicular spaces. Distorted appearance of oocytes was a major alteration observed. The effects of chronic exposure on growth and reproduction parameters were investigated in M. pancalus. The study demonstrated that lead can cause reproductive alteration in fishes. Present study insured that the gain in body weight and gonadal development along with egg laying capacity that is the fecundity and histological alteration of ovary of Mastacembelus pancalus is noticeably changed after 30 days exposure of lead.