International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies
2025, Vol. 13, Issue 1, Part A
Effect of cadmium and zinc on biomolecular profiles of the freshwater cyclopoid copepod Thermocyclops decipiens
Author(s): Karthikeyan V, Prabakaran M, Vimalraj A, Durairajsingh, Nasreen Banu H, Victoria Helen Rosy F and Sivakumar K
Abstract: The acute toxicity of cadmium and zinc to the freshwater cyclopoid copepod
Thermocyclops decipiens is studied in relation to biochemical parameters such as protein, RNA, DNA, and free amino acids. Results indicate that cadmium is more toxic than zinc; mortality was at 100% at higher concentrations within 48 hours, whereas the effects of zinc were much milder. Cd exposure resulted in large decreases in the levels of proteins and RNA with a lower RNA:DNA ratio, indicating slowed protein synthesis and cellular activity. The concentration of total free amino acids was reduced by both metals, which can indicate metabolic perturbations. These findings focus attention on the use of biochemical endpoints as indicative measures of the toxicity of heavy metals and place an emphasis on the need to carry out long-term studies regarding the effects of heavy metal exposure on aquatic organisms. This paper contributes to an understanding of how pollution affects the aquatic ecosystem, thereby informing the management strategies against heavy metal contamination.
DOI: 10.22271/fish.2025.v13.i1a.3013Pages: 41-46 | 58 Views 27 DownloadsDownload Full Article: Click Here
How to cite this article:
Karthikeyan V, Prabakaran M, Vimalraj A, Durairajsingh, Nasreen Banu H, Victoria Helen Rosy F, Sivakumar K.
Effect of cadmium and zinc on biomolecular profiles of the freshwater cyclopoid copepod Thermocyclops decipiens. Int J Fish Aquat Stud 2025;13(1):41-46. DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22271/fish.2025.v13.i1a.3013