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Histopathological changes in selenium-exposed fish
Summary
Selenium exposure from man-made effluent caused liver and kidney damage in Redear sunfish (Lepomis microlophus) from Martin Lake. Histopathological changes included necrosis and glomerulonephritis, indicating toxic effects on fish health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental toxicology
- Aquatic toxicology
- Fish pathology
Background:
- Martin Lake in east Texas received selenium-laden effluent from man-made sources.
- Redear sunfish (Lepomis microlophus) were collected from Martin Lake and a reference lake 8 km upstream.
- Selenium is a metalloid known for its potential toxicity to aquatic organisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the histopathological effects of chronic selenium exposure on Redear sunfish.
- To compare fish health between a contaminated lake (Martin Lake) and a reference site.
Main Methods:
- Collected Redear sunfish from Martin Lake and a reference lake.
- Preserved various organs including hepatopancreas, mesonephros, gonads, heart, spleen, stomach, and gill arches.
- Performed histopathological examinations using optical and transmission electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- Livers of Martin Lake fish showed central necrosis, reduced rough endoplasmic reticulum, and increased lysosomes.
- Kidneys exhibited proliferative glomerulonephritis.
- Exocrine pancreas showed hypertrophy, disorganization, and altered endoplasmic reticulum structure.
- Stomach, spleen, gills, heart, and gonads displayed no abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Chronic selenium exposure from effluent significantly impacted Redear sunfish liver and kidney tissues.
- Histopathological alterations indicate toxic effects of selenium on fish at the cellular and tissue levels.
- Martin Lake fish accumulated approximately 20 ppm selenium in the liver, correlating with observed pathologies.