CHLORPYRIFOS INDUCED CHANGES ON THE PHYSIOLOGY OF COMMON CARP (CYPRINUS CARPIO LINNAEUS, 1785): A LABORATORY EXPOSURE STUDY

The present study was designed to study the effects of the pesticide chlorpyrifos (CPF) on the physiology of the economically important fish species common carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1785) by applying a biomarker approach This pesticide is considered as a priority substance in surface waters according to Directive 2013/39/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council. The fish were treated with decreasing concentrations of CPF for 72 hours (acute exposure) and the histological structure of gills and respiration rate were examined. In sum, we found pronounced alterations in the gill structure and changes in the respiration rate index, regardless of the applied pesticide concentrations which indicates its negative effects on non-target aquatic species such as common carp. The results from such studies could be incorporated in the legislation to prevent water contamination in areas with intensive agricultural practices by applying biomarkers, and an update could also be initiated on the maximum permissible concentrations of CPF in surface waters.