Reference haematology and blood biochemistry profiles of striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) in summer and winter seasons

Abstract

Pangasianodon hypophthalmus is a major aquaculture species in South and Southeast Asia with a high level of production. Standard physiological indices of candidate species are of great value for proper health monitoring and better production. Since fish physiology is grossly influenced by temperature, the reference intervals (RIs) of haematology and blood biochemistry of the healthy reference population of this species are established here in winter and summer seasons following standard methodologies and non-parametric statistics. Haemoglobin, alkaline phosphatase enzyme activity, glucose, urea, and creatinine levels were significantly higher in summer, while leucocyte count, globulin concentration, alanine aminotransferase enzyme activity were higher in winter suggesting the need for use of season-specific RIs for correct interpretation of test results. The normometric database would be useful in season-specific stress assessment, monitoring of well-being, and pathological progressions in this catfish which contributes about 2% to the global aquaculture production.