ABSTRACT

 Due of its toxicity and longevity in aquatic habitats, the widely used herbicide paraquat poses a serious threat to the environment. In this study, a common freshwater catfish species called Clarias gariepinus, is exposed to paraquat, and its effects on its growth and condition are examined. In a controlled laboratory environment, C. gariepinus fingerlings were exposed to paraquat at sublethal doses for a prolonged period of time. Growth metrics, such as total length and weight, were then assessed at the conclusion of the test periods. The findings suggest that paraquat exposure had a negative effect on C. gariepinus growth. In comparison to control groups, fish exposed to greater paraquat concentrations grew at a slower rate, had shorter overall lengths, and weighed less. These results imply that the suppression of growth caused by paraquat may be a result of the herbicide's interaction with metabolic functions or its effects on food availability and digesting. Finally, this study demonstrates the negative impacts of paraquat exposure on the development and condition variables of Clarias gariepinus. The results emphasize the need for monitoring and mitigating the environmental effects of paraquat pollution in aquatic ecosystems since it not only endangers the health of aquatic animals like C. gariepinus but also disrupts the overall ecological balance of freshwater habitats. To better understand the underlying causes of paraquat toxicity in aquatic creatures and to create strategies for its efficient management and cleanup, more study is required.