Role of Integrated Biomarker Response Tool for Assessment of Naphthalene Toxicity in Anabas testudineus

Polyaromatic hydrocarbons are highly stable and can easily permeate through biological membranes due to their lipophilic nature. They are characterized by their ability to act at the site of application and even at sites distant to the zone of application. Any contamination associated with aquatic bodies due to the presence of PAHs can be assessed by investigating biochemical changes. The most common polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) pollutant naphthalene was selected for the bioassay experiment using Indian climbing perch Anabas testudineus. The biochemical response in the muscle tissue was investigated after exposure to varying concentrations of naphthalene by estimating protein, glycogen, Alanine Aminotransaminase, and Aspartate Aminotransaminase. The results showed inhibition of protein and glycogen levels due to naphthalene stress. Similarly, a decrease in the activity of transaminase in muscle tissues was noticed. The results have been computed using star plots for interpretation of integrated biomarker response (IBR). The results clearly support the role of biochemical parameters in assessing the impact of naphthalene stress on fish health. IBR index can be developed as a useful tool in monitoring quantitative as well as the qualitative effect of naphthalene toxicity in fishes and other aquatic animals.

Automated summary

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are stable compounds that can easily permeate biological membranes, affecting aquatic organisms. Exposure to naphthalene resulted in inhibition of protein and glycogen levels, as well as decreased transaminase activity in muscle tissues. The study highlights the potential use of integrated biomarker response (IBR) index for assessing the impact of naphthalene stress on fish health.