Ameliorative effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Sawdust Effluent-induced physiological stress in Heteroclarias

Abstract

The release of sawdust effluent into the aquatic environment increases turbidity and induces oxidative stress in fish. This study investigated the ameliorative effects of stresses induced by sawdust effluent in Heteroclarias. Juveniles of Heteroclarias were exposed to lethal concentrations (1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 g/l) of sawdust effluent for 96 h and fed on turmeric (0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 2.5%) for 30 days. After exposure periods, the 96 h LC₅₀ was 3.1g/l, blood and organs were collected for hematological and biochemical assays. Activities of Alanine aminotransferase (ALT); Aspartate aminotransferase (AST); Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH); Acetylcholinesterase (AChE); Superoxide dismutase (SOD); Catalase (CAT); Glutathione peroxidase (GPX);  melanodehydehyde (MDA), total protein and glucose increased (P < 0.05) in Group F compared to control Group A. The red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), hemoglobin, hematocrit, lymphocytes, and platelets decreased (P < 0.05) as the concentration of toxicant increased. However, enzyme activities and haematological levels revealed a gradual reduction and increase in Groups C, D & E fed 1%, 2%, and 2.5% turmeric respectively. While a great reduction and elevation (P < 0.05) was, observed in Group B fed 0.5% turmeric respectively. This implies that 0.5% turmeric supplementation in diet is capable of minimizing oxidative stress in sawdust-exposed-Heteroclarias.