Determination of Lethal Concentrations of Profenofos and Azadirachtin on Labeo Rohita and Analysis of Electrolyte Imbalance Following Sub-Lethal Exposure

Abstract

This study explores the acute and sub-lethal toxic effects of two commonly used pesticides—Profenofos (an organophosphate) and Azadirachtin (a biopesticide)—on the freshwater fish Labeo rohita. The 96-hour LC₅₀ values were determined through controlled laboratory exposures, revealing Profenofos to be suggestively more toxic (0.08 mg/L) than Azadirachtin (50.0 mg/L). Sub-lethal exposures at 50% of LC₅₀ concentrations over 96 hours and 28 days were shown to assess their effect on fish electrolyte balance. Measurements of sodium, potassium, and calcium levels indicated a progressive decline, with Profenofos causing more severe disturbances compared to Azadirachtin. These findings suggest that even low concentrations of these pesticides can harm osmoregulation and physiological stability in aquatic organisms. The study highlights the ecological risks associated with pesticide contamination in aquatic ecosystems and the need for regulatory analysis on pesticide usage near freshwater bodies.