histopathology of gills and livers of juvenile Clariasgariepinus(Burchell, 1822)exposed to aqueous extracts of Carica papaya dry seeds under laboratory conditions

Abstract

African Sharptooth, C.gariepinus (mean weight 11.81g±0.23g and mean length 9.8cm ± 0.2) were exposed to graded concentration (0, 150, and 180, 210 and 240mgL-1) of aqueous extract of C. papaya dry seeds in triplicates for 4 days. They were fed a 25% crude protein diet at 1% biomass half at 800 and 1600h. Experimental design was a completely randomized type. The control fish’s gill histology revealed normal histomorphology with intact blood vessels, gill slits and supporting cartilage apparent. Exposed fish showed degeneration of the gill filament, hypertrophy, hyperchondrial of the gill arch and lesion. Normal tubules, haematopoietic structures, and a portal triad with a dilated portal vein were found in the livers of control fish. The exposed fish livers showed vacoulation, steatosis, necrosis and degeneration of hepatocyte degeneration. The findings suggest that pathology of Clarias gariepinus’ gill and liver could be useful biomarker for assessing aqueous extract of Carica papaya dry seeds toxicosis.