Naphthalene-induced hematological disturbances and oxidative stress in an estuarine edible crab, Scylla serrata.

The 30-day sublethal effect of naphthalene on Scylla serrata was studied using hematological parameters, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant status. The results revealed a decreasing trend in the hemolymph-related parameters of the crabs exposed to naphthalene. There was an increase in lipid peroxidation activity in the gonads of the crabs exposed to naphthalene. On the other hand, the enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase) and nonenzymatic (vitamin E, vitamin C and glutathione) antioxidants showed decreased activity for the respective gonads. The results were statistically significant in comparison with the control. These parameters are considered the first detectable/quantifiable response to chemical stress and can serve as biomarkers.