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Teratological examination of the insecticide methylparathion (Wofatox 50 EC) on pheasant embryos. 1. Morphological
Insights
Methylparathion (Wofatox 50 EC) and Parathion caused teratogenic effects in pheasant embryos, leading to cervical muscle atrophy and spinal deformities. These findings highlight the developmental toxicity of these organophosphate insecticides.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Developmental Toxicology
- Avian Embryology
Background:
- Organophosphate insecticides like methylparathion and parathion are widely used in agriculture.
- Concerns exist regarding their potential adverse effects on non-target organisms, including avian species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the teratogenic potential of methylparathion (Wofatox 50 EC) and parathion (Parathion 20 WP) in pheasant embryos.
- To characterize the morphological changes induced by these insecticides during embryonic development.
Main Methods:
- Embryonated pheasant eggs were inoculated with varying concentrations of Wofatox 50 EC and Parathion 20 WP on the 12th day of incubation.
- Embryos were examined macroscopically, via skeletal staining, and through light microscopy to assess morphological alterations.
Main Results:
- Exposure to methylparathion and parathion resulted in primary hypoplasia or atrophy of the cervical musculature (m. longus colli).
- Affected embryos exhibited lordosis and scoliosis of the cervical spine, and in most cases, cyllosis was also observed.
Conclusions:
- Methylparathion and parathion demonstrate significant teratogenic effects in pheasant embryos, specifically targeting cervical development.
- These findings underscore the risks associated with organophosphate pesticide exposure to developing avian wildlife.
Abstract:
Teratogenic effects of methylparathion / Wofatox 50 EC/ and Parathion 20 WP as positive control material were tested in pheasant embryos. On the 12th day of incubation 0.1 ml of the emulsions or suspensions of the insecticides at different concentrations was inoculated into the air space of embryonated eggs. The following dose levels were employed: 27 and 270 mg/kg egg of Wofatox 50 EC, and 10 mg/kg of Parathion 20 WP. Morphological changes were evaluated by macroscopic, skeletal staining and light microscopic examinations of the embryos. Primary hypoplasia or atrophy developed in the cervical musculature /m. longus colli/ accompanied by lordosis and scoliosis of the cervical spine. In most cases we also found cyllosis .
