Published Paper Details:

In present investigation, heamotoxic effects of fluoride were noticed in freshwater fish, Heteropneustes fossilis after exposing to sublethal concentrations (35 mg F/ L and 70 mg F/L) of fluoride for 15, 30 and 45 days. For this intention routine haematological parameters like total erythrocyte count (TEC), total leukocyte count (TLC), haemoglobin content (Hb), PCV%, erythrocyte indices, blood clotting time and O2 carrying capacity were estimated. The findings of present study revealed that the fluoride had a negative impact on haematological parameters of Heteropneustes fossilis. The fish H. fossilis showed a significant decrease in TEC, Hb %, and PCV % while significant increase in WBC count in all exposure durations and concentrations at different level of significant ( p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.0001). The erythrocyte indices like MCV, MCH and MCHC values were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in fluoride exposed fishes (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). This might be due to the possible disruption of haemopoietic tissue or impairment of liver and kidney functions. Significant increase in blood clotting time and decreased O2 carrying capacity were also noticed in present study. Based on the results, we conclude that fluoride is toxic to Heteropneustes fossilis and its occurrence in the environment may threaten the health of aquatic species.