Histoarchitectural Alterations in the Liver of Clarias batrachus Following Octylphenol Exposure

Octylphenol is a synthetic compound with estrogen-like activity that poses significant risks to aquatic organisms. Because histological changes provide sensitive biomarkers of toxicant exposure, this study investigated the hepatic effects of octylphenol in Indian catfish (Clarias batrachus). Fish were exposed to sublethal concentrations (10, 15, and 20 mg/L) for 15 days, alongside a control group. Microscopic examination revealed progressive alterations, including inflammatory cell infiltration, sinusoidal dilation, venular congestion, melano‑macrophage centres, central vein damage, vacuolization, and haemolysis. These findings confirm that octylphenol disrupts liver architecture and compromises organ function, highlighting its hepatotoxic potential in aquatic ecosystems.