Flow cytometry evaluation of phagocytosis and respiratory burst in silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen) leukocytes exposed in vitro to atrazi

Water contamination by agrichemical is a matter of major concern to fish producers and researchers in that the presence of xenobiotics might affect fish immune system and their capacity to cope with water-borne pathogenic microorganisms.The purpose of this study was to evaluate flow cytometry as a tool to access the phagocytic and respiratory burst activity of silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen) leukocytes cultured in the presence or absence of atrazine.We found that phagocytosis and respiratory burst activity were reduced (p < 0.05) in leukocytes exposed to atrazine compared to non-exposed leukocytes.Our results further highlight the immunotoxic effect of atrazine and offers additional tools to monitor fish health in areas in which water contamination is a matter of concern.