Journal Article

Effect of UV-B radiation on the defence system of Labeo rohita (Actinopterygii: Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) larvae and its modulation by seed of Devil’s Horsewhip, Achyranthes aspera

Singh, Moirangthem Kameshwor, Chakrabarti, Rina, Sharma, JaiGopal

2013

Overview

Background. Ultraviolet (UV-B) radiation affects the immune system of fish. Dietary supplementation of natural immunostimulants may enhance the immunity of fish. The presently reported investigation evaluates the UV-B protective property of Achyranthes aspera seed in larvae of rohu, Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822). Materials and methods. Larvae (1.19 plus or minus 0.03 g) were fed four formulas of diet containing 0.0% (control), 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1.0% Achyranthes aspera seeds. After 51 days, larvae of each feeding treatment were divided into two groups. One groups was exposed to UV-B radiation (80 mu W times cm super(-2)) and the other one remained unexposed. Results. Average weight of fish was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in fish fed 0.5%-seed-supplemented diet (compared to other treatments). UV-B radiation affected the growth of fish fed 0.1%-seed-supplemented- and control diets; other two treatments remained unaffected. Total serum protein-, albumin-, and globulin levels were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in exposed fish compared to the unexposed ones. Among the exposed groups, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase levels were minimum in fish fed 1.0%-seed-supplemented diet, whereas the highest levels of myeloperoxidase, hemagglutination titre, and white blood cells were found in fish fed 0.5%-seed-supplemented diet. Conclusion. Dietary supplementation of A. aspera seed at 0.5% level enhanced the growth and immunity of UV-B exposed fish.

• Publisher: West Pomeranian University of Technology
• Subject: Achyranthes aspera / Actinopterygii / Cyprinidae / Cypriniformes / Freshwater / Labeo rohita / Larvae / Ultraviolet radiation