LAUSR

The current study was conducted to assess the hematological and histopathological changes in major carp (Catla catla) exposed to different concentrations of copper (Cu) and cadmium (Cd). For this purpose, Catla catla fish, weighing approximately 230–235 g, were randomly divided into four groups and then exposed to acute doses of Cu (1.25 ppm), Cd (4.5 ppm), and their mixture (2.25 ppm) for 96 h and then 20, 30, and 40% respectively for a period of 30 days. Results showed that red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), lymphocyte, and monocyte decreased significantly, while the total white blood cell count and neutrophil population significantly increased in experimental groups as compared with the control one. Histopathological examination of liver tissues showed karyorrhexis, hepatic cells degeneration, congestion, and hemorrhages. Microscopic analysis of gills’ sections revealed lamellar atrophy, telangiectasia, and necrosis of lamellar epithelial cells. In the kidneys, different histopathological ailments like atrophy of glomeruli, necrosis of renal tubular cells, increased urinary spaces, degeneration of renal tubules, and melanomacrophage aggregates were observed, while in the intestine, atrophy of villi, sloughing of epithelial villi, and congestion were seen after 30 days of exposure. In conclusion, the study indicates that exposure to Cu and Cd for longer period of time causes adverse hematological and histopathological changes in Catla catla fish.