Efficacy evaluation of Rauwolfia serpentina against Chromium (VI) toxicity in fish, Channa punctatus

Aim: To explore the efficacy potential of ethanolic root extract of Rauwolfia serpentina against Chromium (VI) toxicity in fish, Channa punctatus. Methodology: Acclimatized fish were divided into six groups, each having 15 specimens. Group I served as a control, while Group II and III fish were exposed to ethanolic root extract of Rauwolfia serpentina (3 mg l-1) and Cr (VI) (96 h LC50/10; 7.68 mg l-1), respectively. Groups IV, V and VI fish were exposed to three different concentrations of ethanolic root extract of Rauwolfia serpentina (1, 2 and 3 mg l-1), simultaneously with 7.68 mg l-1 of Cr (VI). The induction of micronuclei, chromosomal aberrations, protein levels and liver enzymes-SGOT, SGPT and ALP- were assessed in fish of all six groups after designated exposure periods. Results: A significant induction (p<0.05) in chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei frequency and activities of liver enzymes (SGOT, SGPT and ALP) coupled with reduced protein level was recorded in Group III as compared to the control. Whereas, a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei induction and activities of liver enzymes together with an increase in protein level was observed in Group IV, V and VI with respect to control and Group III. Interpretation: Present investigation evince the ameliorative potential of ethanolic root extract of Rauwolfia serpentina against Cr (VI) induced chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei induction, changes in protein levels and biochemical alterations of liver enzymes in Channa punctatus. Thus would help present work helps in saving the aquatic biodiversity and increasing the production of protein rich food fish.