Evaluation of the Genotoxic and Histological Effects in Neotropical Fish Prochilodus Lacustris (Pisces, Prochilodontidae) in Conservation Area of the Brazilian Northeast.

Human activities significantly impact the aquatic biota in lacustrine environments, leading to negative environmental consequences. Due to this, this study was carried out to evaluate the genotoxic and histological biomarkers in the gills and kidneys of Prochilodus lacustris. The collection of fish and water was conducted in three distinct stations (S1, S2, S3) in an international protected area in northeast Brazil. The histological alterations index was used to assess changes in the gills and kidneys at a histological level. In addition, micronucleus and nuclear abnormalities tests were employed to examine damage to the genetic material. According to the frequency of Micronucleus, nuclear injuries, and the histopathology of gills and kidneys, it can be inferred that station S1 had the highest impact on the fish, causing significant harm. Based on our findings, the organisms residing in Lake Açu are adversely affected by the poor environmental conditions. This raises doubts about the effectiveness of the Protection Area by Humid Zone of International Interest in Northeast Brazil.