BIOCHEMICAL AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL PROFILES OF Oreochromis niloticus (O. niloticus - LINNAEUS, 1758) EXPOSED TO SOLID WASTE LEACHATE
2025
AYOOLA, S.O. | EJIKEME, C.E. | AKINJOGUNLA, V.F.
Landfill sites pose significant environmental and human health risks due to the production of leachate, which is heterogeneous and varies temporally and seasonally. This study evaluates the impact of leachate from the Olusosun landfill on 300 post-juvenile Oreochromis niloticus (O. niloticus), assessing biochemical and histopathological toxicity. Fish were exposed to acute concentrations of leachate for 96 hours, and the lethal concentration (LC50) was determined using probit analysis. The percentage mortality was recorded at increasing leachate concentrations (580 mL, 600 mL, 620 mL, 640 mL, and 660 mL). Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, while organs (liver, kidney, gills, and muscles) were extracted for histopathological examination after 28 days. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA. The 96-hour LC50 value of leachate was 39.05 mL/L, with mortality rates increasing from 0% to 100% as concentration levels rose. Fish exposed to higher concentrations exhibited abnormal swimming behaviors and progressive skin discoloration, with dead fish becoming noticeably lighter in color. Histopathological analysis revealed severe necrosis in the gills and sinusoidal congestion in the liver. Biochemical analysis showed fluctuating creatinine levels, indicating physiological stress. The findings suggest that lower leachate concentrations increase survival chances, while high concentrations pose severe toxic effects. Due to the toxic effects of landfill leachate on O. niloticus, it is recommended that landfills be located away from aquatic ecosystems or that alternative waste management strategies such as closed landfill systems be considered to prevent water contamination.
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