Hepatic Changes Associated with Micro cystitis Aeruginosa Toxin (Microcystin-LR) in Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)
IAAAM Archive
Todd R. Cecil; Lester Khoo; A.T. Leard
College of Veterinary Medicine, National Center for Catfish Research, Mississippi State University, Stoneville, MS

Abstract

The histopathological effects of sublethal doses of microcystin-LR, a hepatotoxin produced by Microcystis aeruginosa, on channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) were studied over a 7-day period. The goal of this study was to identify and characterize histopathological lesions that would prove useful as a diagnostic tool in catfish ponds where algal bloom toxicosis is suspected. Fish were injected intraperitoneally with various doses (2.5 ug kg-1, 25 ug kg-1 and 250 ug kg-1) and observed for behavioral changes (feeding rate and opercular rate). Necropsies were performed on sacrificed fish at 1, 2, 4 and 7 days post-inoculation. Toxic effects were evaluated through histopathological examination of vital organs (gills, liver, spleen, kidney, heart, intestine and brain). No mortalities were recorded at any of the doses. After seven days, all fish had returned to normal activity and feeding. Histopathological changes were limited to the liver of fish injected with the medium and high doses and included diffuse to regionally extensive hepatocellular dissociation, individualization, degeneration and necrosis. Hepatocyte regeneration was evident in all samplings by day 7. All other organs appeared unaffected.

Speaker Information
(click the speaker's name to view other papers and abstracts submitted by this speaker)

Todd R. Cecil


MAIN : Poster Session : Hepatic Changes
Powered By VIN
SAID=27