Sharma_2024_Ecotoxicology__

lambda-cyhalothrin, a synthetic type II pyrethroid, has become increasingly popular for control of aphids, butterfly larvae, and beetles, replacing other agricultural chemicals. As a result of which, residues of this synthetic pesticide are being reported across the globe in natural water, which poses a serious threat to aquatic life. Therefore, the present study was designed to understand the toxicity effects of lambda-cyhalothrin on behaviour, oxidative stress and neurotoxicity in a vertebrate aquatic model, zebrafish (Danio rerio). The fish were exposed to 0.129, 0.194 and 0.388microg/L corresponding to 5%, 10% and 20% of 96hLC(50) (1.94microg/L) for 28 days. Upon exposure to the highest concentration (0.388microg/L), the test animal exhibited significant alterations in behavioural patterns like number of entries to the top zone (n), decrease in average speed (m/s) and decrease in time spent in top zone (s). Moreover, the shoaling test demonstrated a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the relative time spent by the tested fish (%) near the stimulus fish. The change in behavioural alterations might be linked to a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the brain acetylcholine esterase activity. Furthermore, the present study also illustrates oxidative stress exerted by lambda-cyhalothrin through an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species, which is again clearly depicted by a significant increase (p<0.05) in Superoxide dismutase, Catalase and Glutathione peroxidase activities. Overall, the present study systematically demonstrates the chronic effects of lambda-cyhalothrin on adult fish behaviour and physiology, which will contribute to assessing the risks of lambda-cyhalothrin to organismal health.