Toxic Effects of Waterborne Pb Exposure on Hematological Parameters and Plasma Components in Starry Flounder, <i>Platichthys stellatus</i>

Lead (Pb) is a non-essential toxic metal that accumulates in aquatic environments, negatively impacting fish health. This study evaluated the acute toxicity of Pb in starry flounders (<i>Platichthys stellatus</i>). Fish (41 ± 8.1 g, 14 ± 0.9 cm) were exposed to Pb concentrations of 0, 10...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Min-Jung Kim, Kyung Mi Lee, Sung-Pyo Hur, Cheol Young Choi, Jun-Hwan Kim
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-03-01
Series:Animals
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/15/7/932
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Summary:Lead (Pb) is a non-essential toxic metal that accumulates in aquatic environments, negatively impacting fish health. This study evaluated the acute toxicity of Pb in starry flounders (<i>Platichthys stellatus</i>). Fish (41 ± 8.1 g, 14 ± 0.9 cm) were exposed to Pb concentrations of 0, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160, 320, and 640 mg Pb<sup>2+</sup>/L for 96 h. The lethal concentration (96 h LC<sub>50</sub>) was determined to be 227 mg Pb<sup>2+</sup>/L. Hematological analysis showed significant decreases in RBC counts, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, while MCH and MCHC increased at ≥160 mg Pb<sup>2+</sup>/L. Plasma calcium levels significantly decreased following Pb exposure, and AST activity was reduced. These findings suggest that acute waterborne Pb exposure adversely affects survival, hematological parameters, and plasma components in <i>P. stellatus</i>, providing insight into Pb toxicity in aquatic organisms.
ISSN:2076-2615