L’IMPACT DES PESTICIDES SUR LA REPRODUCTION ET LES PARAMETRES PHYSIOLOGIQUES CHEZ LE LAPIN

Abstract

The objective of this study was to conduct an in-depth analysis of the deleterious effects of the herbicide Clodinafop Propargyl on reproduction, particularly on testicular function and structure. The study also aimed to evaluate its negative effects on certain physiological parameters in rabbits, such as body mass, as well as the weight and morphometry of target organs of toxicity (liver, kidneys, spleen, and testes), in addition to hematological parameters (complete blood count, CBC). To achieve this objective, a sample of twenty-four adult male domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), aged 5–6 months, was subjected to a medium-term experimental protocol. The animals were randomly divided into four groups, each consisting of six rabbits. Three experimental groups, labeled G1, G2, and G3, received increasing doses of Clodinafop Propargyl (1, 4, and 20 mg/kg/day, respectively) for a period of four weeks, while the fourth group served as the control. Body weight was measured daily. Hematological and hormonal analyses were performed, along with the assessment of morphometric characteristics such as weight, length, width, and thickness of the testes, liver, kidneys, and spleen. A sperm analysis was conducted to evaluate testicular function. In addition, histological examinations of testicular and epididymal samples were carried out to detect potential histological alterations. The results revealed a change in feeding behavior starting from the second week of herbicide administration, leading to a reduction in body weight gain and average daily gain (ADG) in treated rabbits compared with the control group. CBC analysis showed an increase in white blood cell count in groups treated with 1 mg/kg and 4 mg/kg of Clodinafop Propargyl, whereas a decrease in white blood cells was observed in the group receiving the highest dose (20 mg/kg). Furthermore, a reduction in red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin, platelets, and hematocrit was observed in the groups treated with 4 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg (Groups 2 and 3). A limited decrease was noted in Group 1 (1 mg/kg), while more pronounced effects were observed in Group 2. In addition, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in testicular weight and morphometric measurements was recorded following herbicide administration, particularly in Group 3. In contrast, an increase in the weight and morphometric parameters of the liver, kidneys, and spleen was observed. A harmful effect on the hypothalamic–pituitary axis was also noted, resulting in a significant decrease in serum sexual hormone levels (testosterone),