author(s)
Ritesh Kumar, Roma Kumari and BKP Mishra

abstract
The intention of the present study is to determine the detrimental effects of a hybrid pesticide, Chlorpyrifos 50% + Cypermethrin 5% EC on the behavior and morphological aspects of an air breathing fish, Clarias batrachus exposed to various concentrations of the pesticide. The study revealed marked behavioral changes like altered schooling behavior, localization at the bottom, irregular and erratic swimming pattern, frequent surface visit, caudal bending, spinning of the body and delayed response to touch. The morphological changes included body de-coloration, excessive mucus secretion, thinning of the body. These changes are indicative of the toxic effects of the pesticide on the behavior and morphological aspects of the fish, Clarias batrachus.