Anjana Toppo and R.K. Singh
Abstract
The present research investigates the toxicological impact of selected heavy metals - lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), on the freshwater catfish Clarias batrachus, commonly found in the aquatic systems of the Balrampur district, Chhattisgarh. The research involved analyzing water samples for heavy metal concentration and exposing Clarias batrachus to varying levels of metal combination under acute, sub - chronic and chronic condition following OECD/WHO guidelines. Hematological parameters such as RBC, WBC, Hb, and MCH, Healthy specimens were subjected to controlled experimental conditions and treated with specific doses of the two metals. Observations were recorded at intervals of 24, 48, 72, and 90 hours (acute), 30-60 days (subchronic), and up to 90+ days (chronic).