Determination of lethal concentration (LC50) of copper to Sarotherodon mossambica

Abstract

The present study was conducted to evaluate the acute toxicity of copper to Sarotherodon mossambica by static bioassays. The average weight and length of fish used in the present investigation were 23-25 g and 12-13 cm, respectively. pH, Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen, Total hardness, Alkalinity of test water was measured daily. The five groups of fishes were exposed to the wide range of copper with different concentrations of 56, 57, 58, 59 and 60 mg/L. All the exposed fishes were daily observed and dead fishes were removed immediately. The mortality was recorded on daily basis. The LC50 value at 96 hr was found to be 58 mg/L to Sarotherodon mossambica. The data obtained were statistically evaluated using Finney’s probit analysis method. Survival time decreased with increasing concentration of copper. Copper concentration was found to be more toxic for Sarotherodon mossambica. Further study needs the processes by which these chemicals affect Haematological and Biochemical changes of the fish.