HISTOPATHOLOGY OF GILL, LIVER AND KIDNEY TISSUES OF THE FRESHWATER FISH Oreochromis niloticus (LINNAEUS 1758) EXPOSED TO Tamarindus indica SEED HUSK POWDER

Abstract

The study evaluated potential tamarind seed husk powder bioaccumulation and its morphological effects in different organs of the freshwater fish, Oreochromis niloticus, after a single acute intra-peritoneal exposure (LC₅₀ of 1.52mg/l) and over progressively longer exposure times (24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 h). The tamarind seed husk powder accumulation was differential and time dependent for most target organs (Gill > Liver > Kidney). The liver showed progressive tamarind seed husk powder accumulation, presenting its highest levels only at the 96 h exposure point. Histopathological alterations were observed in kidney, liver and gills from 24 h of tamarind seed husk powder exposure, and the extent of the alterations and their severity increased out to 96 h of exposure. These results showed a correlation between tamarind seed husk powder accumulation and the induced morphological damages in different organs along the time in a tropical fish species Oreochromis niloticus, being the histopathology a sensitive technique for the observation of the initial damage from tamarind seed husk powder exposure. The study demonstrated the necessity to regulate the discharge of tamarind seed husk powder in effluents from domestic and industrial sources into aquatic systems.