Influence of cadmium exposure on selected hematological parameters in freshwater teleost, Notemigonus crysoleucas

The use of hematological parameters for assessing the acute toxicity of heavy metals to mammals has shown considerable promise. These parameters include the measurement of blood glucose, hematocrit, and a variety of enzymes. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the use of selected hematological parameters in aquatic organisms. Exposure of Notemigonus crysoleucas to cadmium resulted in a 96-hr LC50 value of 3.15 mg Cd/liter. The influence of cadmium on selected hematological parameters was examined following 96 hr of exposure to 0, 1.35, and 2.40 mg Cd/liter. Cadmium exposure produced significant alterations (P less than 0.05) in the levels of glucose, aspartate aminotransaminase, and alanine aminotransaminase. Hematocrit was not altered by exposure to cadmium. These results indicate that glucose and transaminases may be useful as diagnostic tests for cadmium exposure in aquatic organisms.