Hematological Alterations in the Fish Channastriata Exposed to Heavy Metal Pollution from River Kharun, Chhattisgarh (India)
Keywords:
heavy metals, hematology,, freshwater, environmental pollution,, toxicity, bioindicator, aquatic ecosystem.Abstract
The present study investigates the impact of heavy metal contamination on the
hematological parameters of the freshwater fish Channastriata (Bloch), a widely
distributed and ecologically significant and tolerant species. Water samples were collected
seasonally from 03 selected sites of the Kharun River, and the concentrations of major
heavy metals (such as Iron, cadmium, lead, nickel, and mercury) were analyzed.
Corresponding fish specimens were examined for blood parameters, including
hemoglobin content, red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count,
PCV,MCV& MCHC values. The results revealed significant alterations in these
parameters, indicating physiological stress and potential immunosuppression. Decreased
hemoglobin levels and RBC counts, along with increased WBC counts, suggest anemia
and inflammatory responses in the exposed fish. This study highlights the bio-indicative
role of Channastriata in freshwater ecosystems and underscores the need for continuous
monitoring of heavy metal contamination in freshwater ecosystems.
