Effect of lead (Pb) toxicity on hemocytes of freshwater molluscs, Bellamya bengalensis with emphasis to cell aggregation
*Srikanta Guria
Post Graduate Department of Zoology, Barasat Govt. College, Barasat, Kolkata-700124 (India) *Corresponding author: Dr. Srikanta Guria, Assistant Professor Phone: 91-9830286956. Email address-guriasrikanta@gmail.com, srikantaguria81@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The hemolymph of aquatic invertebrates is the target of many environmental contaminants. The alteration of hemocyte aggregation is thought to reflect an impairment of internal defense. In the freshwater molluscs, Bellamya bengalensis, after the lead (Pb) treatment, both paraptosis and apoptosis like features were noticed in the hemocytes. Pb inhibited the degree of hemocyte aggregation. Poorly organized loose clump/ aggregates were noticed in lead treated group. Mean number of compact aggregates was found to be less than smaller loose clump/ aggregates after treatment. Mean number of cells in each clump/ aggregate was also decreased after Pb treatment which may affect “encapsulation response” and hemocyte–hemocyte adhesion (microaggregation).