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Aim: To assess alteration in the protein levels of major organs and induction of micronuclei in the freshwater fish, Channa punctatus following exposure to chlorpyrifos, while also investigating the potential mitigating effects of extracts from Melissa officinalis and Mentha piperita on the adverse impacts induced by this pesticide. Methodology: Two weeks of acclimatized healthy fish were divided into four different groups. Group G1 served as the control group, while G2 contained chlorpyrifos (LC50/10, 96 hr). Group G3 was exposed to chlorpyrifos (LC50/10, 96 hr) along with 8 mg l-1 of Melissa officinalis ethanolic extract, and similarly, G4 contained chlorpyrifos (LC50/10, 96 hr) along with 8 mg l-1 ethanolic extract of Mentha piperita. Sampling was conducted over various durations of 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. The ethanolic extracts of Melissa officinalis and Mentha piperita were used as remedial compounds as they are rich in several bioactive compounds, primarily polyphenols. Results: The investigation revealed a notable decrease in the total protein content of kidney, liver, gills and muscles following exposure to chlorpyrifos after each sampling duration. While, upon exposure to remedies containing the ethanolic extracts of Melissa officinalis and Mentha piperita, the protein levels exhibited a significant recovery (p < 0.05) in a duration-dependent manner, compared to the control group. This suggests a promising ameliorative capability of Melissa officinalis and Mentha piperita against chlorpyrifos toxicity. Further, the induction of micronuclei by chlorpyrifos and their subsequent recovery through the application of phytoextracts Melissa officinalis and Mentha piperita displayed a similar pattern, indicating the potential protective effects of these extracts against chlorpyrifos-induced genotoxicity. Interpretation: It is plausible to conclude that standardized doses of Melissa officinalis and Mentha piperita hold the potential to enhance aquaculture practices and safeguard fish production in agriculturally contaminated water bodies. These findings emphasize their valuable contribution in sustaining fish health amidst toxic environments. Key words: Channa punctatus, Chlorpyrifos, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita
Tiwari et al. (Sat,) studied this question.