Study on heavy metals Cu on some physiological indices in Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix)

In this study, in order to investigation of acute toxicity heavy metal copper on some blood and biochemical parameters of Silver carp (Hypophthalmicthys molitrix</em>), a total of 270 fish were exposed to 0, 5 and 10 mg/L of Cu (NO3</sub>)2 </sub>andduring 96h. All of fishes at treatment 5 mg/L and 10mg/L were died after 24 and 12 hours, respectively. While ecposed to copper nitrate survived up to 96 hours at all concentrations. 24h- LC50</sub> of Cu2+</sup> was 2.5 mg/L. Results showed that Hemoglobin (Hb) levels was decreased with the increase of copper concentration (p<0.05). Hematocrit (Hct), white blood cells count (WBC), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) was decreased significantly (p<0.05) with increase of duration. Differential count of leukocyte showed significant decrease in lymphocyte and significant increase in neutrophil and monocyte from zero to 24 hours. Biochemical parameter results showed significant changes, but not about cholesterol. Glucose and albumin levels were changed significantly with the increase of copper concentration in 12 and 24 hours (p<0.05). Total protein levels were decreased significantly at treatment 5 mg/L at two studied times. Based on results, blood indices are sensitive to copper acute toxicity. According to the results, blood parameters and biochemical factors are sensitive factors in monitoring the toxicity and the stress caused by copper particularly in acute concentrations.