Biochemical Impact Of Prolonged Starvation On Clarias Batrachus: A Comparative Study Of Liver, Ovary, And Testis

Abstract

Starvation poses a significant challenge to organisms, impacting their physiological and biochemical functions. This study investigates the effects of prolonged starvation on the level of protein content in the liver and gonads of Clarias batrachus, a fish species known for its ability to adapt to extended periods without food. Over a 40-day starvation period, we measured protein levels at 10-day intervals to understand the biochemical responses to nutrient deprivation. Our results reveal a gradual decrease in protein content across all examined tissues, with the liver showing the highest depletion, followed by the ovaries and the testes. The observed protein reduction is likely due to enhanced gluconeogenesis, inhibited RNA synthesis, and increased rates of deamination and transamination. These findings highlight the differential tissue responses to starvation and provide insights into the adaptive mechanisms employed by Clarias batrachus to survive in nutrient-scarce environments.