Determination of Median Lethal Concentration (LC50) and Behavioral Effects of Chlordecone in the Cichlid fish, Etroplus maculatus

The present study was aimed to investigate the median lethal concentration of chlordecone in the Cichlid fish, Etroplus maculatus and also its behavioral changes on the exposure to the environmental contaminant. Behavior is considered as a valid biomarker of pollution and also has high ecological significance, as it influences the fitness of the affected species. Different concentrations of chlordecone were exposed to the fish to evaluate the median lethal concentration at 96 h. The result showed that 35 g/ L kill 50 % of the animal, which is determined by the probit analysis. Behavioral changes such as reddening of eyes and fins, exopthalmia, slow movement and lethargy, hitting on the side walls were observed. Results from this study showed that the change in the behavior pattern due to chlordecone exposure was an ecologically relevant assessment for the effects of chlordecone on the test animal.