Asian Journal of Environment & Ecology

Abstract

This study evaluated the hematological, genotoxic and oxidative stress biomarkers of  Oreochromisniloticus exposed to different concentrations of ethanolic extract of  Commelina benghalensis (Dayflower). Sublethal exposure at 1% and 10% LC₅₀ was done        for twenty-one (21) days with physico-chemical parameters of cultured water and behavioral responses assessed. Hematological; genotoxic; antioxidant enzyme and non-enzyme activities studies were analyzed using standard methods. Results showed increase in the levels of Red blood cells; heamoglobin and white blood cells across extract concentrations compared to control. The number of micronucleated cells increased compared to control; though not significant difference (p>0.05). Superoxide dismutase (SOD); reduced glutathione (GSH) and glutathionde-S-transferase (GST) activities were inhibited by the plant extract; while the level of lipid peroxidation as expressed by malondialdehyde (MDA) increased compared to control. Skin colour change; erratic swimming and mortality were observed at both higher concentration (10%) and lower concentration (1%) of the extract; though behavioral response at 10% extract concentration was higher than 1% extract concentration. In conclusion; the plant C.benghalensis has the potential to exert stress and promote cellular damage in contrast to its ability to boost the blood status of O. niloticus at varying concentration.