Alterations in structural morphology of brain and ovary in Labeo rohita (ham.) from lakes of Bangalore

Anthropogenic chemicals in the aquatic environment are known to cause reproductive disturbances in vertebrate organisms, by interfering with the endocrine system. Various reproductive abnormalities caused by endocrine disrupters have been reported but whether any adverse effects have occurred at the population level is not yet known. During the routine biological studies on Indian major carp, Labeo rohita, samples of fish caught alive from Hebbal and Chowkalli lakes, which receive domestic sewage and other effluents, showed body colour change, length and weight alterations in relation to maturity of fish when compared to those of normal fishes sampled from fish farm in Bangalore. Structurally abnormal brain and ovarian lobes were found in fishes sampled from Chowkalli lake along with the normal ones. Fishes are vital source of protein for humans and domestic animals forming basis for economically important fisheries and aquaculture. Thus, the concerned with health and safety of aquatic organisms such as fish which is one among the staple food for a large population, must be addressed.