G. VANI, K. VEERAIAH, M. VIJAYA KUMAR AND S.K. PARVEEN
Abstract
Effect of Cartap hydrochloride on oxygen consumption of the Indian major carp, Cirrhinus mrigala was studied. Fingerlings were exposed to sub-lethal (0.0376 mg-1) and lethal (0.376 mg-1) concentrations of Cartap hydrochloride for 24,48,72 and 96hrs. In both sublethal and lethal concentrations for all exposed hours Cirrhinus mrigala showed an increased tendency in oxygen consumption during the initial time of exposure and a gradual decrease during the subsequent study period. Alterations in oxygen consumption may be due to respiratory distress as a consequence of impaired oxidative metabolism. Present study showed that Cartap hydrochloride altered respiratory metabolism in Cirrhinus mrigala which can be used as bio-indicator for assessing pesticide toxicity to fish.