EFFECT OF NICOTIANA TABACUM (TOBACCO) ON THE HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF AFRICAN CATFISH (CLARIAS GARIEPINUS) JUVENILES
Abstract
This study investigated the toxicological impact of Nicotiana tabacum aqueous crude leaf extract
on the hematological parameters of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) juveniles. Acute toxicity
tests were conducted under laboratory conditions using six concentrations (0.00–0.40 g/10 L),
and the 96 h LC₅₀ value was determined to be 0.146 g/10 L. Water quality analyses revealed
significant changes (p < 0.05) in turbidity, conductivity, and dissolved oxygen across treatments,
while pH and temperature showed no significant variation. Hematological analysis indicated
concentration-dependent alterations in hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell (RBC) count, white
blood cell (WBC) count, and differential leukocyte counts, with significant reductions in Hb and
RBC and marked increases in WBC at higher concentrations. These results suggest that N.
tabacum exerts hematotoxic effects on C. gariepinus, potentially impairing oxygen transport and
immune function. The findings underscore the ecological risks of tobacco waste contamination
in aquatic environments and highlight the need for proper disposal practices to protect fish health
and aquaculture productivity
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