HAEMATOLOGICAL RESPONSES OF CLARIAS BATRACHUS (LINN.) TO SUBLETHAL CONCENTRATIONS OF LEAD

Blood parameters (Hb%, TLC, TLC, ESR, PCV, MCV and MCH) of the catfish, Clarias batrachus (Linn.) were investigated, exposed to different concentrations of lead [Group- A (control), (Group- B  (0.5ppm), Group- C (1.0ppm) and Group- D (3.0 ppm)] during different time intervals (7, 14, 21 and 28 days). Haemoglobin values fell to the maximum (11.5%) from its control value (13.0%). TEC values were also reduced (2.90×106/Cumm) during the maximum exposure period (28 days) in groups C and D. On the other hand, TLC increased to the maximum (21,900/Cumm) during 28 days exposure period at 3.00 ppm of lead. ESR values also indicated significant increase (3.10mm/h) at 1.00 ppm of lead during 28 days exposure period. PCV decreased to the maximum (29%) at maximum exposure period (28 days) at intermediate concentration (1.00ppm of lead). MCH increased in all treated groups, but a maximum rise of 40.34pg was recorded at 1.00ppm of lead during 28 days exposure period. Maximum reduction in MCV (100.0µ3) was observed after 28 days exposure period at 0.5 and 1.00 ppm of lead concentration. The above research indicated that the heavy metal lead induces hematological responses in the fresh water catfish, Clarias batrachus.