Vol. 12(2), pp. 118-123, June 2024
https://doi.org/10.14662/arjasr2024300
Copyright 2024
Author(s) retain the copyright of this article
ISSN: 2360-7874
http://www.academicresearchjournals.org/ARJASR/Index.htm
 

Research paper

Computer assisted sperm analysis for monitoring pollution effects and Environmental related impacts on quality of African Catfish sperm in Fish Farming Entrepreneurships in Delta State.

 

1Oniyemofe, C. Oghenerhorho, 2Otalekor, Isaiah and 3Akpobire, Oghenekome

 

1. Department: of Computer Engineering,Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara 2. Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara 3.Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara

 

Accepted 13 June 2024

Abstract

This study examines the impact of environmental pollution on sperm quality in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) from fish farms in Delta State, Nigeria, utilizing computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) to evaluate reproductive health. The Niger Delta's unique aquatic ecosystem, characterized by freshwater, brackish, and marine environments, provides a suitable setting for examining the interplay between water quality and fish sperm viability. Sperm samples collected from both natural and aquaculture environments were analyzed for motility, velocity, concentration, and morphological integrity, with CASA systems (CRISMAS CASA and Hobson Sperm Tracker) documenting key quality indicators such as curvilinear velocity (VCL), straight-line velocity (VSL), and beat cross frequency (BCF). Statistical analysis demonstrated significant declines in sperm motility and concentration in high-pollution areas, with Koko and Ughelli showing 60% and 65% motility rates, respectively, compared to 75% in the less polluted Asaba region. Sperm concentration was similarly affected, with high-pollution areas yielding concentrations as low as 12.5 × 10⁶/mL, contrasting with 16.5 × 10⁶/mL at low-pollution sites. Heavy metal contamination and ammonia levels were strongly correlated with reduced sperm quality. Morphological abnormalities doubled in polluted sites (20%) versus cleaner regions (10%), indicating severe environmental stress. Dissolved oxygen, which directly influenced sperm motility, was found to be lowest in the most affected areas, dropping to 5.0 mg/L in Ughelli compared to 6.0 mg/L in Asaba. Additionally, oxidative stress indicators such as lipid peroxidation were significantly elevated, with values reaching 5.0 nmol MDA/mg protein in polluted areas. These findings confirm CASA’s efficacy in assessing environmental stress impacts on fish sperm and underscore the importance of monitoring aquatic ecosystems to sustain Delta State’s fish farming industry.

 

Key words: African catfish; Computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA); Aquatic pollution; Sperm motility; Aquaculture; Niger Delta; Environmental stress indicators

 

How to cite this article (APA Style): Oniyemofe, C. O., Otalekor, I., Akpobire, O. (2024). Computer assisted sperm analysis for monitoring pollution effects and Environmental related impacts on quality of African Catfish sperm in Fish Farming Entrepreneurships in Delta State. Acad. Res. J. Agri. Sci. Res. 12(2): 118-123