EVALUATION OF TESTICULAR TOXICITY OF BUTACHLOR (A CHLOROACETANILIDE HERBICIDE) IN RATS

Abstract

Butachlor, a chloroacetanilide herbicides, widely used in agriculture by farmers was evaluated to determine its effects on testes of rats. Oral administration of butachlor at dose level of 200 mg/kg b.wt./day for 30 day leads to alterations in the testes. Haematological studies showed decrease in erythrocyte count, haematocrit and haemoglobin levels while an increase was noticed in leukocytes count, blood urea and blood sugar. The weight of testes and accessory sex organs decreased significantly. Butachlor administration brought about marked reduction in sperm counts. A significant reduction in glycogen and sialic acid and an increase in protein and cholesterol content of testes were noticed. Histological examination revealed shrunken seminiferous tubules exhibiting loosened epithelium and reduced number of spermatozoa. Fertility test showed 90% negative fertility in treated rats. In addition, acid phosphatase enzyme activity increased significantly whereas alkaline phosphatase enzyme activity showed sharp decline. It also suppressed testosterone, FSH and LH levels significantly. In conclusion, butachlor has deleterious effects on male reproduction.