Histopathological Alterations In Gills Of Fingerlings Of Clarias Gariepinus Burchell 1822 Following Sublethal Acute Exposure To Hevea Brasiliensis

Abstract Studies on the toxic effects of water soluble fraction WSF of Hevea brasiliensis on the histology of the gills of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings showed severe impacts on the gills of the test organisms. Six concentrations were prepared from the water soluble fraction of the latex 0 30 40 50 60 and 70mgl for histopathological examination on the gills of the species. In the control group there was no histological change on the test organism. Gill samples for histological examination were prepared from the concentrations which toxic manifestation of the toxicant was observed. There was no toxic manifestation on the control 0mgl 30mgl and in the 40mgl of concentration whereas the test organism in the 50mgl 60mgl and 70mgl concentration exhibited various reactions which included erratic movement vertical swimming position colour changes weaken swimming motions and changes in opercula rate. In the 50mgl concentration the gill showed disintegration of cells in gill in the 60mgl concentration it was observed to show Lamellae erosion and fusion of cells and in the 70mgl concentration Pronounced lamellae erosion was observed in gill ray. Therefore if latex obtained from Hevea brasiliensis finds its way into the aquatic environment as would be expected it will cause deleterious ecological effects to both terrestrial and aquatic biota at the long term. Realizing the tremendous adverse effects associated with WSF of the latex from H. brasilensis safety measures should be adhere by companies using rubber latex has their raw material.