Author(s): Manmeet Pal Kaur, Shanthanagouda AH and JK Kondal

Abstract: Heavy metal pollution is a major concern due to the non-biodegradable nature and bioaccumulation of metals like chromium, which often exceeds permissible water limits and harms aquatic life. This study assessed the ameliorative effects of ascorbic acid on chromium-induced toxicity in Cyprinus carpio over 28 days. The 96-hour LC₅₀ for chromium was 176.97 ppm; two sublethal concentrations (1/10th and 1/5th LC₅₀) were used for chronic exposure, with and without ascorbic acid. Chromium exposure led to reduced TEC, Hb, and Ht, and increased TLC, MCV, MCH, and MCHC. Activities of oxidative stress enzymes SOD, CAT, GR, GST, GPx, and LPO were significantly elevated. Histological changes included liver vacuolization, pyknosis, kidney tubule and glomerular damage, and gill lamellae destruction. Ascorbic acid supplementation showed partial recovery of physiological and tissue parameters. The study demonstrates that ascorbic acid effectively reduces chromium toxicity in C. carpio, indicating its potential role as a protective agent against heavy metal stress.

DOI: 10.22271/fish.2025.v13.i4a.3117

Pages: 74-87  |  832 Views  177 Downloads

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