Fluoride-induced biochemical changes in fresh water catfish (Clarias batrachus, Linn.)

The toxicity of fluoride (F) to 16-cm long fresh water male catfish (Clarias batrachus, Linn.) was evaluated after their exposure to two sub-lethal concentrations of NaF (35 mg F ion/L and 70 mg IF ion/L) for 90 days. Changes in biochemical parameters in muscle, liver, and testis tissues were recorded. Significant depletion of total protein and lipids in these tissues occurred at both the lower and higher F concentrations. A significant reduction of glycogen content was found in muscle and testis at the lower concentration, but it increased in all three tissues at the higher concentration. Moreover, an increase in the level of cholesterol in muscle, liver, and testis occurred at both concentrations, but it was significantly higher (P<0.05) only at the higher concentration.