Effect of Essential Oil Anesthetics on Water Quality During the Transport of Etroplus Suratensis Juveniles

Abstract

The fascinating coloration and serene nature of ornamental fish provide a source of blissful tranquillity for people irrespective of age group. Ornamental fish industry can provide ample opportunity for the self-employment of people hailing from rural sector and is a good foreign exchange earner too. A critical aspect of long-distance live fish transportation is the use of anaesthetics to minimize stress and ensure fish welfare. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of essential oils used as anaesthetics on water quality parameters during prolonged transportation of juveniles of Etroplus suratensis. Water samples were collected at intervals of 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours from experimental groups treated with Clove oil, Nutmeg oil, Cinnamon oil and Peppermint oil, along with a control group. Key water quality parameters, dissolved oxygen and carbon dioxide, were measured using standard analytical procedures. Results indicated that Nutmeg oil and Peppermint oil maintained more favourable water quality conditions compared to Clove oil and Cinnamon oil across the tested parameters. These findings suggest that Nutmeg oil and Peppermint oil are more effective in reducing transport-induced stress in ornamental fish, outperforming even Clove oil, which is widely recognized as a standard anaesthetic in the industry.