Individual and combined effects of dimecron-ziram on the levels of serum prolactin and selected minerals of an edible freshwater fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters)

The individual and combined effects of dimecron (an organophosphate pesticide) and ziram (a carbamate fungicide) on the levels of serum prolactin and selected minerals (Ca, P, and Mg) are studied in an edible freshwater fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters) exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of individual dimecron (0.002 mL L-1) and ziram (0.008 mL L-1) and combined 1:4 mixture of dimecron-ziram (0.01 mL L-1) for 24, 48, and 72 It. Exposure of fish to sub-lethal concentration of individual and mixture of dimecron and ziram caused changes in the levels of serum prolactin and minerals studied compared to control fishes. Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that the individual exposures of dimecron and ziram comparatively manifested higher toxic effects (than the combined exposure) by reducing prolactin levels and loss of mineral contents. These changes may result in a severe osmoregulatory problem. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.