Effects of phenolic compounds on in vivo blood parameters of a fish Notopterus notopterus

Abstract

Effects of phenol (p), dinitrophenol (DNP), pentachloro‐phenol (PCP) and their three combinations, antagonistic (PCP+DNP)/p], additive (DNP+P)/pcp] and synergistic (P+DNP)/PCP], at three subacute concentrations (1/10th, 1/15th and l/20th fractions of 96 h LC₅₀) were determined on several blood parameters after 30 days exposure taking Notopterus notopterus as a test fish. Generally/ RBC, WBC and PCV were found to be increased while CT, ESR, Hb, MCH, MCHC and MCV were decreased. However, PCP showed dual ‐ effects in many cases. CT and MCV were decreased in PCP alone and in (DNP+P)/PCP combination, while increased in (P+DNP)/PCP combination. Hb increased both in (DNP+P)/PCP and (P+DNP)/PCP combinations while decreased in PCP alone. Again RBC and MCV were decreased/increased in DNP alone. Significance of findings is that these haematological parameters can be used as scientifically most accurate and reliable laboratory diagonistic indices by fish breeders, administrators and scientists as to know the state of health of fish population and to make warning about deleterious effects of phenolic compounds so that appropriate measure may be taken by all concerned to protect a valuable source of human food.