ACUTE TOXICITY OF CADMIUM CHLORIDE TO JUVENILES OF NILE PEARCH, OREOCHROMIS NILOTICUS (BÜRCHELL, 1822)

Abstract

In the present study, juveniles of Oreochromis niloticus were exposed to the cadmium chloride in  order to determine the chemical’s toxicity to the species at both acute and sub-lethal exposures. Fish were exposed to acute concentrations of 38, 40, 42, 44 and 46mg/l of cadmium chloride. Experiments had a control that served as a reference point. Effects of the herbicide were measured using behavioral as well as growth indices (as suggested by previous authors). Results of the acute toxicity test showed that cadmium was toxic to the species in a dose-dependent manner. The LC50 value of cadmium established for the species was 41.03 mg/l. Most importantly, cadmium induced hyperactivity at acute levels of exposure. The study revealed that cadmium was moderately toxic to O. niloticus juveniles and affected the behavior as well as growth of the fish. Hence, use of the chemical should be with caution.