Responses of Biochemical Markers in the Fish Prochilodus lineatus Exposed to a Commercial Formulation of Endosulfan

Abstract

Among the most extensively used compounds for the pest-control in Argentinean crops is the organochlorine endosulfan. The sublethal effects of the commercial endosulfan formulation on hematology and lipid peroxidation (LPO) of the neotropical fish Prochilodus lineatus were investigated. Firstly, we calculated acute toxicity (LC50) in order to define sublethal concentrations (0, 1.2 and 2.4 ug/L). Hematological and oxidative stress responses were assessed at 24, 48 and 96 h. Endosulfan exposure significantly diminished the hemoglobin concentration (Hb), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH) and total plasma protein; and increased white blood cells (WBC) count and plasma glucose after 96 h. Exposed fish showed an alteration of the differential leukocytes count, evidenced by more thrombocytes and monocytes, and less lymphocytes and neutrophils. Endosulfan increased LPO levels in intestine, liver and brain in both sublethal concentrations. The present results suggest that endosulfan produces biochemical and physiological alterations, including immunological disorders, and it is a good inductor of oxidative stress in P. lineatus.