Effects of acute crude oil exposure on basic physiological functions of Persian sturgeon, Acipenser persicus

Hematological parameters are suitable biomarkers for evaluating the potential risk of the chemicals. The aim of this study was to investigate of acute crude oil exposure on basic physiological functions of Persian sturgeon, Acipenser persicus. 210 juvenile Persian sturgeon (9.4 ± 1g) were supplied by the Rajaei fish farm in Mazandaran Province, Iran. Juveniles were exposed to the crude oil (15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 ppm). The 96h-LC50 were detected under static condition by SPSS software. Hematological and biochemical parameters were compared between control group and treatment exposed to 96h-LC50. The median lethal concentration was 16.5 ppm in 96 h toxicity test. WBC, RBC, Hb and MCHC decreased, while MCV, MCH and PCV were significantly higher in the treatment which exposed to LC50 concentration (P<0.01). Results of differential leukocyte count showed that after treatment with LC50 concentration, neutrophils and monocytes increased, while lymphocytes and eosinophils decreased (P<0.01). Biochemical parameters showed an increase in serum glucose (p<001). Other parameters including total protein, ALT, AST, ALP and LDH enzymes decreased in treatment group significantly (p