Study on the effect of paraquat dichloride’s (PD) acute toxicity on Anabas testudineus (Bloch, 1792)

A commonly used herbicide in agriculture, paraquat dichloride (PD) has caused a great deal of concern due to its high toxicity and potential impact on the environment. The present study aims to study the effect of paraquat dichloride’s (PD) acute toxicity, behavioural and morphological changes on Anabas testudineus. The species Anabas testudineus , also known as the climbing Perch. Fish were treated with five different doses of PD concentrations in a Fishery Science lab to estimate the LC50 value. The probit analysis method was used to calculate the LC50 value for PD exposure. Fish exposed to (PD) exhibited behavioral abnormalities such as altered nervous behavior, elevated stress response, and respiratory distress. When exposed fish were examined morphologically, several abnormalities were found, such as Sclerosis in the head and tail region, Mucous layer on the whole body, Blood from gills, Redness in eyes, Belly swelling, Red color appearing in the head and tail region, pelvic fin, and anal fin destroyed. The finding of the study shows, Anabas testudineus exposed to PD had an LC50 value of 116.94 mgL-1, which implies the level of toxicity concentration. These results indicate that exposure to (PD) influences the behavior and external morphology of Anabas testudineus . This study emphasizes how PD affects freshwater fish, specifically Anabas testudineus , in an acute toxicological way. In addition, observed morphological and behavioral changes highlight the significance of tracking and controlling the use of PD in agricultural practices to minimize any potential adverse environmental impacts and protect the aquatic ecosystem.