Effect of Lara Force® on the Haematological Parameters of Clarias gariepinus

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of Lara Force® a commercially available pesticide composed of Lambda-Cyhalothrin and Imidacloprid on the haematological parameters of Clarias gariepinus. The Clarias gariepinus were exposed to varying concentrations of the pesticide in controlled bioassays, with both acute (24-hour) and extended (21-day) exposure periods. Detailed haematological assessments, including measurements of haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume, red and white blood cell counts, and differential leukocyte percentages, were performed to determine physiological alterations. The results indicate significant disruptions in blood parameters, suggesting that the fish initiate compensatory mechanisms to counteract pesticide-induced stress, while deteriorating water quality evidenced by increased acidity and reduced dissolved oxygen, compounds these effects. The study highlights the threats posed by pesticide contamination, which are direct physiological stress on aquatic organisms. These findings underscore the urgent need for stricter pesticide regulations, integrated pest management strategies, and continuous environmental monitoring to protect aquatic ecosystems and sustain fish health.