Behavioral, Physical and Biochemical Responses Induced by Amoxicillin Exposure from Cyprinus carpio

Amoxicillin was tested onto the freshwater fish C. carpio (fingerlings and adult). The motivation was to understand and analyze the toxicity of amoxicillin (AMX) exposure on Cyprinus carpio, in terms of behavioral, physical, and biochemical abnormalities in the target fishes. The behavioral changes were analysed using parameters:Swimming and Breathing Patterns, and Appetite. The Changes in Physical Appearances: discoloration of scales accounted for the physical abnormalities. The Enzyme Assays:Acid phosphatase, Alkaline phosphatase, Aspartate aminotransferase, Alanine aminotransferase, Lactate dehydrogenase, Acetylcholine esterase, conducted on the liver, muscle and brain samples of the fish were the indicators of the biochemical changes in the fishes. The concentrations tested on the fishes were chosen in a way to identify the Lowest Observed Effect Concentration, LC-50 (Lethal Concentration) and 100% mortality for both the fingerlings and the adult Cyprinus carpio. It was found that the Lethal Dose (100% mortality) for fingerlings is less than Lowest Observed Effect Concentration of adult Cyprinus carpio. Also, Amoxicillin is toxic to the liver. Liver failure of the target fishes led them unto death.