Effects of Pesticides on Haematological Parameters of Fish: Recent Updates

Abstract

Since the blood takes part directly or indirectly in various physiological processes of the body, haematological parameters are considered important biomarker of alterations in metabolism or physiology. Indiscriminate use of pesticides has polluted different water bodies with adverse effects on the health of aquatic biota including fishes. Toxicological effects of agrochemicals including pesticides can be observed by monitoring haematological parameters. Present review deals with study of effects of pesticides on the important blood parameters such as erythrocyte count, haemoglobin content, packed cell volume, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, absolute values, leucocyte count, coagulation time and thrombocyte count of freshwater fish species. The review also aims to explain possible mechanism of pesticide induced alterations in the parameters and deleterious consequences on fish health. This could help to explore the future prospects of research in the concerned field. Haematological parameters of fish could thus serve as sensitive index to examine health status and to ascertain the toxic effects on ecosystem under pesticide exposure in the era of increased pesticide utilisation.