TOXICITY OF SNIPER 1000EC ON RESPIRATORY DYNAMICS OF OREOCHROMIS NILOTICUS (TREWAVAS, 1983) UNDER LABORATORY CONDITIONS

Abubakar, Musa Idi-ogede

Department of Biology

College of Education, Zuba, Abuja, Nigeria.

E-mail: a.midiog@yahoo.com

Abstract: Indiscriminate use of Sniper 1000EC has become a serious problem among local fishermen in the Northern parts of Niger state. A 96hrs static bioassay was carried out to determine the effect of 2, 3 dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate (Sniper 1000EC) on Respiratory dynamics of Oreochromis niloticus (Trewavas, 1983) with mean body weight 16.05 ± 1.02; mean standard length 9.60 ± 0.38cm. O. niloticus showed different respiratory dynamics to varying concentrations of sniper 1000EC (0, 3, 4, 5 and 6mg/l) due to its toxicity. OVR (Opercula ventilation rate) appeared to be more sensitive than TFB (Tail fin beat). These changes were attributed to the toxicant. It is concluded that respiratory dynamics were consequences of exposure to sniper 1000EC. It is recommended that the use of Sniper 1000EC by local fishermen be banned to preserve the aquatic ecosystem.