Published Paper Details:

Larvivorous fishes are an important component of integrated pest management of mosquitoes as well as freshwater aquaculture in Madhya Pradesh, India. This study has assessed the haematological and biochemical characters of the four key larvivorous fishes are Gambusia affinis, Poecilia reticulata, Heteropneustes fossilis and Channa striata in seasonal variation in Gurma Dam, Mauganj. There were significant interspecies and seasonal differences in red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit and white blood cell count: these reflect species-specific physiological adaptations and responses to environmental stressors (e.g. hypoxia, temperature fluctuations). Nutritional and metabolic status changes consistent with environmental conditions were further exemplified by changes in biochemical parameters of serum proteins, serum glucose, liver enzymes (ALT and AST) and minerals. Correlation analysis showed good correlation between dissolved oxygen, pH, carbon dioxide, and the combination of fish health indicators. The study emphasises the need to have region-specific hematological metrics for proper optimization of larval fish health for enhanced vector efficiency, aquaculture productivity. These results presented good baseline data for sustainable fisheries management practices and offered practical suggestions for regular monitoring and environment quality maintenance in order to benefit the double objectives of public health and food security in freshwater ecosystems.