EFFECT OF SUBLETHAL TOXICITY OF ZINC, MERCURY AND CADMIUM ON PERIPHERAL HAEMOGRAM IN ANABAS TESTUDINEUS (BLOCH)

Effect of sub-lethal concentrations of ZnCls (300 mg/l), HgCl, (0.2 mg/l) and CdCls (350 mg/l) on blood parameters of Anabas testudineus after 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 days of exposure has been reported. There was permanent decrease in erythrocyte and nuclear surface area. TEC and Hb showed significant decrease whereas ESR and MCV increased even after 75 days. Leucocytes are hypersensitive to these toxicants showing significant decrease in small lymphocytes, increase in large lymphocytes, basophils and TLC. This study indicates long term toxic effect of these heavy metals to blood of A. testudinous.