Effect of tributyltin on the early embryonic development in the freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii (De Man)

Organotin compounds particularly tributyltin (TBT) has been used as an antifouling biocides. In the present investigation, effects of TBT on the embryonic development, growth, hatchability and hatching success of eggs exposed to TBT were studied in both control and treated groups of the freshwater prawn (brooder) Macrobrachium rosenbergii. Three concentrations viz. 0.78 ppm, 1.56 ppm and 3.12 ppm were selected for treatment. TBT at 3.12 ppm concentration delayed the embryonic development and significantly reduced the hatchability of eggs as well. However, there were no significant changes obtained in the embryonic development and hatchability at the lower concentration (0.78 ppm) of TBT. Whereas TBT at 1.56 ppm affected the embryogenesis in toto. Interestingly, the control groups showed normal development such as elongation of body, formation of eyestalk and internal organs. On the other hand, the treated groups showed impaired embryonic development with reduced body growth. Interestingly, the embryo exposed to TBT showed absence of eyestalk and internal organs. Thus, TBT has significantly retarded the embryonic development in the freshwater prawn M. rosenbergii.