Abstract

The study analysed the toxicological, histopathological, and biological effects of Ivermectin on juvenile Clarias gariepinus. The toxic effects of Ashiver 5 Ivermectin bolus drug on Clarias gariepinus was tested. The fish was acclimated for 3 days before conducting a range-finding test with various concentrations (0bolus, 0.25bolus, 0.50bolus, 0.75 bolus, 1.00 bolus, 1.50 bolus and 2.00 bolus) in a plastic tank (26 x 20 x 30cm), each filled with 10 litres of water. Each concentration was tested in triplicates and 10 fish were introduced into each tank. Upon exposure to the toxicant, the fish displayed erratic swimming pattern, loss of reflex, and a colour change. Mortality increased with higher concentrations of Ashiver 5 Ivermectin bolus. The definitive (acute) test was carried out for 96 hours, and the concentrations used were 0, 1.20, 1.40, 1.60, and 1.80 bolus/10 liters of water. The lethal median concentration (LC50) was graphically determined to be 1.35 bolus/10litres. As the concentration of Ashiver 5 Ivermectin bolus increases, the number of mortalities increased. The histological analysis of the gill, skin and liver of C. gariepinus at 0bolus/10L of water appeared normal, while at higher concentrations, organs architecture was deformed. Water quality was poor in treatments with higher concentrations. These results indicates the need for careful use of Ashiver 5 Ivermectin bolus medicines in aquatic ecosystems to improve fish and water quality in rural environments.

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