Effects of Crude Oil Contaminated Water on Haematocrit and Histopathology of Guinea Pig: Animal Model for Investigating Crude Oil Pollution

Abstract

Twenty-four guinea pigs (Caria porcellus) obtained from the Animal House of College of Health Sciences, University of Port-Harcourt, Nigeria, were weighed individually and divided into six groups of four per group. They were allowed access to rat feed and tap water ad libitum for two weeks acclimatization. Different concentrations of crude oil (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%) were mixed with tap water and served to five experimental groups. The sixth group received 100% tap water and served as control. The study lasted for 28 days after which the following parameters were monitored in each guinea pig: appetite, body weight, packed cell volume (PCV) and the lung histopathology. Results showed loss of appetite, dull and disoriented conditions in animals with contaminated water. Microscopic examination of the lungs showed that effects of crude oil contaminated water increased with the concentration of crude oil. There was a progressive reduction in the value of Haematocrit in the experimental groups compared to the control groups. The results of the present study suggest that crude oil is toxic to the experimental animals.