Behavioral and Structural Alterations in fresh water fish Catla catla exposed to zinc chloride

Abstract

The acute toxicity of zinc chloride was evaluated in Catla catla over a 96-hour exposure period. The LC50 value was calculated utilizing the Finney method (1971). Comprehensive monitoring of behavioral and morphological alterations was conducted throughout the 96 hours. Behavioral manifestations included erratic swimming, surface gulping, increased opercular activity, decreased activity, restlessness, and loss of equilibrium. Morphological changes recorded comprised scale detachment, ocular recession, conjunctival hyperemia, profuse mucous secretion, branchial hemorrhage, and dermal hemorrhages. The concentration of zinc chloride demonstrated significant toxicity. Control organisms were concurrently monitored for comparative analysis. The empirical data indicates the potential of Catla catla as a reliable bio-indicator for heavy metal contamination in lotic and lentic freshwater environments.