Articles

The issue of heavy metal pollution is a major environmental and health-related problem of the freshwater system because of the insidious and toxic nature of such metals as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg). Although much research has been conducted, the lack of knowledge regarding bioaccumulation, physiological reactions in fish and the health risks involved make it difficult to control. It is a literature review on sources, environmental and bioaccumulation of heavy metals of major carps (Labeo rohita, Catla catla and Cirrhinus mrigala) as bioindicators. It assesses the tissue-specific patterns of accumulation, those effects on growth, reproduction, and fish quality, but focuses on the results of the River Chenab (Head Trimmu). The review covers a discussion of the ecological and population health impacts of biomagnification and dietary exposure, and biomaker-based early environmental stress detection. It offers a guideline to assist management and mitigation of pollution strategies in respect to freshwater.