Fly ash induced lipid peroxidation in the fish <i>Cirrhinus mrigala</i>

Coal fly ash (CFA), is a byproduct of coal combustion in a thermal power plant, as well as industrial solid waste. Its improper disposal causes environmental, ecological, and human health risks. In aquatic systems, fly ash contamination leads to the bioaccumulation of metals, oxidative stress, tissue damage and threats to biodiversity. The consumption of contaminated food poses a hazard to the food chain. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate fly ash induced lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the fish Cirrhinus mrigala. To assess the toxicity of CFA, collected from the dumping station of Solapur Super Thermal Power Station, located at village Fatatewadi and Aherwadi, District: Solapur, fish were exposed to three concentrations (1 g/L, 3 g/L, and 5 g/L) for both acute (4 days) and chronic (30 days) durations, along with a control group. The MDA level was measured in the liver, gills, intestine, and muscles for both acute and chronic time. The MDA levels were increased significantly with increasing CFA concentrations. In all the organs, MDA level significantly increased in both acute and chronic durations. The highest MDA level was observed in the gills and the lowest activity was noticed in the intestine for both acute and chronic exposure. This concludes that CFA contamination induces oxidative stress and toxicity in freshwater fish, highlighting its potential impact on aquatic life.