Scenario of Genotoxicity in Fishes and Its Impact on Fish Industry

Abstract

Genotoxicity is a property possessed by some substances that makes them harmful to the genetic information contained in organisms. Heavy metal ions and polycyclic hydrocarbons are the most influencing genotoxicants for fishes. A large proportion of genotoxicants are disposed in free flowing water bodies and the funa particulary, fishes are highly affected. Accumulation of genotxicants not only effects the growth of fishes but also decrease the fecundity capacity. Liver and kidney are two important organs affected as enzymes like MT and ALT are playing pivotal role in detoxification of genotoxicants. Genotoxicants have pronounced influence on liver histology and biochemistry which resulted in structural damage to the vital organ. Screening and development of microbial strains and phytoplankton as bioaccumulating agents will help in decreasing pronounce of toxins leading to genetic material damage. The second level effect of genotoxins can be carcinogens, or cancer-causing agents, mutagens, or mutation-causing agents, or teratogens, birth defect-causing agents.