Effects of Pesticides on the development of Zebrafish Embryo (Danio rerio)

Abstract

 The present research article provides some data regarding the effects of pesticides on the development of Zebrafish embryo. Pollution of water is increased due to chemicals present in pesticides. Drainage, rainfall, soil temperature, microbial activity along with half-life of pesticides, solubility and mobility are few factors responsible for pesticides residues’ movement to water. Currently Zebrafish is a valid animal model to study treatment with various small molecules, to analyse their biological functions, and to disclose the mechanism of bioactive compounds. Now in toxicological studies, embryos of Zebrafish especially known as Zebra Danio are used as an economic alternative to adult fish. Testing for substance toxicity for living organisms is an important step in the development and adaptation of any chemical for various purposes. Bifenthrin and Deltamethrin are the members of Pyrethroid compound which are group of synthetic pesticides mimicking to the naturally available pesticide Pyrethrum. Pyrethroid insecticides are very commonly used agricultural as well as residential insecticides. Insecticides and pesticides have been found to be inducing several neurological disorders in experimental animals as well as in Humans. However, toxicity assessment of insecticides is complex and some condemning data gap remains. The Zebrafish embryo toxicity test run here is based on exposure of target compounds to newly fertilized eggs for 96 hours in a static system according to OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) guidelines. As toxicological endpoints, coagulation of eggs and embryos, failure to develop somites, lack of heart-beat as well as non-detachment of the tail from the yolk are recorded after 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. Other morphological deformities are also recorded. Overall effects of Deltamethrin and Bifenthrin both are giving teratogenic effects at developing stage of Zebrafish embryo.