Toxic impact of sodium arsenite in Channa punctatus

Arsenic is a potent environmental toxin. Arsenic is ubiquitous in the environment and chronic or acute exposure through food and water as well as occupational sources can contribute to a well-defined spectrum of disease. Present study has been designed to evaluate the toxic effects of sodium arsenite (Arsenic) on Channa punctatus. Fishes were treated with different concentrations of sodium arsenite within the range 0.5mM-2mM.On exposure to 2mM of NaAs02, the survival time of the fishes were 2 and half hours. Survival time was inversely proportional to the concentration of NaAs02. Survival time was found to be above 3hr, 4hr and 16hr for 1.5mM, ImM and 0.5mM of NaAs02. Behavioural and morphological manifestations were recorded at a definite interval after being exposed to NaAs02. Micronuclei test assay and chromosomal studies confirmed significant alterations.