Sub-lethal effect of copper toxicity on liver lesions of Roach (Rutilus rutilus caspicus) juveniles

Copper is one of the Heavy metals that it is so toxic for both humans and animals. This study was carried out to find the effects of sub lethal concentrations of Copper sulfate on Roach (Rutilus rutilus caspicus) juveniles. Fish were exposed to concentrations of LC50 24h, 48h, 72h and 96h of Copper sulfate for four days. Then behavioral changes and histopathological alternations of liver were studied. Hyperactivity, swimming sideways, lack of balance and increase in rate of swimming and opercula activity in treatment groups were seen. Liver showed increase in sinusoidal space, hepatocytes necrosis and degeneration, hypertrophy and intercellular oedema, hepatocytes atrophy. Also hemorrhage dilation, dilation of sinusoid, hydropic swelling and lipidosis were seen in liver. The results showed that sub lethal toxicity of Copper sulfate severely affects the vital organs and normal behavior. No behavioral complications were observed in the control group and liver tissue was normal. The severities of liver symptoms were different between treatment groups andwere dose-related lesions in the liver of Roach exposed to Cuso4. Therefore the Usage of the Copper sulfate might be dangerous and mortal for fish healthy.