Effect of long-term exposure of silver nanoparticles on growth indices, hematological and biochemical parameters and gonad histology of male goldfish (Carassius auratus gibelio)

Abstract

Studying the impact of emerging pollutants such as nanoparticles is necessary to reveal the adverse effect. In this study, the effects of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) on hematological, biochemical, and gonad histopathological indices of male goldfish were examined. Sublethal toxicity were calculated based on acute toxicity and three dosages were selected. Live specimen of Carassius auratus gibelio larval were treated in 1, 2, and 3 ppm Ag-NP with one control group. Blood and tissue samples were extracted after 6 months exposure to sublethal concentrations. Results showed that Ag-NPs have reduced growth rate and effected on all blood indices significantly. Biochemical analysis revealed that Ag-NPs significantly reduced blood glucose and total protein than in comparison to the control group and caused significantly differences in the concentrations of serum cholesterol (p < .05). Furthermore, histological observation of intestine after 6 months exposure showed definite alterations in tissue and maximum hypertrophy injuries were found after long-term exposure to 3 ppm Ag-NPs concentration. In addition, indicated that long-term exposure to Ag-NPs postponed sexual maturity in male gibel carp.

Keywords: goldfish; histopathology; nanotechnology; physiology; pollution.