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مقاله علمی – پژوهشی:‌ بررسی اثر فرمالدئید بی سولفیت سدیم (هیدروکسی متانوسولفانات سدیم) در کاهش ترکیبات ازته آب مخازن و بر برخی شاخص‌های خونی، ایمنی و کبدی ماهی کوی (Cyprinus rubrofuscus) Effects of sodium formaldehyde bisulfite on ammonia detoxification and biological responses in Koi (Cyprinus rubrofuscus) 1 1 نیتروژن آمونیاکی آلاینده اصلی، مصرف‌کننده اکسیژن و یک عامل محدودکننده محیطی رایج در آبزی‌پروری است که می‌تواند به‌سرعت در آب انباشته‌ شود و به غلظت‌های سمی برسد. ماهی‌ها به‌خصوص ماهی کوی (Cyprinus rubrofuscus)، در برابر سمیّت ناشی از نیتروژن آمونیاکی آسیب‌پذیر هستند. در مطالعه حاضر، اثرات سمی مختلف آمونیاک بر ماهی کوی ازجمله شاخص‌های آبی، خونی، کبدی، رشدی و پاسخ ایمنی مورد بررسی قرار گرفت. بدین منظور، تعداد 360 عدد ماهی کوی با میانگین وزنی 50 گرم به صورت تصادفی در 24 آکواریوم (15 قطعه در هر اکواریوم) قرار داده شدند. و آزمون در 6 تیمار با چهار تکرار و در هر تکرار 15 عدد ماهی به ازاء هر 1 ppm آمونیاک تام 31  میلیگرم FBS  در هر لیتر  استفاده شد.  آزمون‌ها تا تلف شدن 50 درصد  ماهیان ادامه یافت و نمونه‌برداری از روز صفر لغایت روز 14 انجام شد. نتایج بررسی شاخص‌های رشد مربوط به ماهی‌های کوی نشان داد که تفاوت معنی‌داری در گروه‌های مختلف از مقادیر میانگین وزن، درصد بازماندگی و درصد رشد روزانه پس از پایان تحقیق وجود دارد. بررسی شاخص‌های مربوط به آب نشان داد که تفاوت معناداری در میزان سختی آب بین روزهای مورد بررسی مربوط به تیمار چهارم (039/0p=) وجود دارد. نتایج مربوط به شاخص‌های خونی  مانند (لمفوسیت ، نوتروفیل ، هماتوکریت ، هموگلوبین، گلبول سفید و گلبول قرمز)  نشان داد  که  تفاوت معناداری در بین تیمار 4 در شاخص لمفوسیت وجود دارد. همچنین در تیمار موردنظر در شاخص نوتروفیل، هماتوکریت، هموگلوبین، تعداد گلبول‌های قرمز (RBC) (میلی‌لیتر) و تعداد گلبول‌های سفید خون (WBC) (میلی لیتر)، تفاوت معنادار مشاهده شد. بررسی نتایج نشان داد که در تیمار ۴، در شاخص‌های سرمی C3 و C4(میلی‌گرم بر دسی‌لیتر)، SGPT[1] (واحد بر لیتر) و(ALP[2] (واحد بر لیتر)، تفاوت معناداری نسبت به سایر تیمارها مشاهده شد .(p<0.05) نتایج هیستوپاتولوژی نشان داد که هپاستوسیت‌ها و سینوزوئیدهای کبدی بدون عارضه دیده می‌شوند که نشان از عدم تأثیر آمونیاک به مقدار 5/0 میلی‌گرم در لیتر  در مواجهه با) FBS 1/55 گرم)، بوده است. نتیجه نهایی این تحقیق نشان داد که FBS به‌تنهایی توانست بیشترین بار آمونیاکی را طی 6 روز تحقیق و حتی پس از برداشتن کیسه FBS از آکواریوم‌ها بردارد. براساس نتایج حاصله از جدول نیتریت چنین به نظر می رسد که FBS  توانسته است مقادیر نیتریت 6  روزه را به میزان قابل ملاحضه ای درگروه کنترل مثبت نسبت به گروه کنترل منفی کاهش دهد. عدم تفاوت معنی‌دار بین مقادیر آمونیاک در گروه‌های شاهد مثبت و منفی در روزهای مشابه نمونه‌برداری می‌تواند حاکی از عدم تأثیر FBS بر کاهش نیترات آب در مطالعه حاضر است. براساس نتایج حاصله، هر یک از شاخص‌های خونی، ایمنی و کبدی ماهی کوی در حضور FBS  تغییر می‌کند.   [1] Serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) [2] Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) 2 Introduction In fish and other aquatic animal farming systems, ammonia is produced by protein metabolism and bacterial activity on excreta and ingested or unabsorbed nutrients (Zhang and Perschbacher, 2003). Exposure to ammonia can cause many toxic effects on fish, affecting physiological and biochemical functions. Ammonia accumulation in fish tissue causes disruption of the circulatory system and various hematological parameters related to lipid metabolism, the immune defense system, blood coagulation, and molecular transport. Exposure to ammonia also causes tissue damage, including to fish gills, liver, and kidneys, through oxidative damage and physiological toxicity. For this reason, in this study, it was decided to use sodium formaldehyde bisulfite (sodium hydroxymethanesulfonate) to reduce nitrogen compounds in reservoir water and some liver and immune blood indices of koi fish, for example, Cyprinus rubrofuscus (Xu et al., 2021). The present study aimed to evaluate the toxic effects of high ammonia (1.5 mg/L) on koi carp and the potential protective role of FBS. Specifically, the objectives were: (1) to assess the impact of severeSodium formaldehyde bisulfite (CH₃NaO₄S; FBS) is widely used to mitigate ammonia toxicity in aquaculture. It functions by chelating free ammonia, reducing its bioavailability and harmful effects. FBS has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in edible aquatic species since  1989 and is effective across a broad range of water temperatures, including near-freezing conditions. Its application has been documented in fish, bivalves, and crustaceans, making it a versatile and cost-effective solution for ammonia management in diverse aquaculture settings. Methodology A total of 360 koi Fish (Cyprinus rubrofuscus) with an average weight of 50 g were randomly assigned to 24 aquaria, following a completely randomized design. Six treatments were established, but this study focuses on the highest ammonia exposure (T4, 1.5 mg/L) and two control groups: a positive control (FBS only) and a negative control (no additives). Each treatment had four replicates with 15 fish per tank. FBS was administered proportionally to ammonia concentration. The experiment continued until 50% mortality occurred in T4. Water quality parameters—including ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, hardness, dissolved oxygen, and temperature—were monitored daily, in line with standard aquaculture management guidelines (Boyd and Tucker, 1998). Fish were sampled at mortality checkpoints; two individuals per tank were collected for hematological, serum, and histopathological analyses. Blood was analyzed for RBC and WBC counts, hemoglobin, hematocrit, lymphocyte percentages, and neutrophil percentages. Serum complement proteins C3 and C4 and enzyme activities including ALT (SGPT), AST, and ALP were measured .Tissue samples from gills, liver, and kidneys were fixed, sectioned, and examined microscopically for histopathological changes. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Duncan’s multiple range test at p<0.05. Results Exposure to high ammonia (T4, 1.5 mg/L) caused significant negative impacts on koi rubrofuscus. Final body weights in T4 were significantly lower than controls, with a negative specific growth rate (SGR) indicating growth suppression. Survival was 100% in +C and -C, but lower in higher ammonia treatment4. Table 1 summarizes biometric differences. Table 1: Investigating the differences in biometric and growth indices of koi fish Treatment Initial weight(grams) Secondary weight (gram) Specific growth rate (SGR) Weight gain (gram) WG Initial length (cm) Secondary length (cm) Survival rate SR T4 48.58±0.26 48.12±0.45 a -0.032±0.04 46.58±0.0 16.51±0.18 ab 16.48±0.18 77/98±3/85 a C+ 48.26±0.26 48.96±0.14 b 0.048±0.016 0.71±0.22 16.7±0.14 b 16.9±0.12 100±0 c C- 48.14±0.23 48.71±0.28 ab 0.039±0.034 0.57±0.49 16.4±0.27 ab 16.6±0.21 100±0 c p-value 0.199 0.036* 0.045 0.041 0.053 0.064 0/041* Water quality in  treatmentT4 . The results revealed no significant difference in pH between experimental treatments based on the days of study. the study, the highest and the lowest pH was related to the main treatment3  and negative control treatment, respectively. Also on the sixth day, the highest and the treatment4. Hematological analysis revealed significant stress in T4 fish. Hemoglobin and hematocrit decreased, and RBC and WBC counts were significantly lower than in controls., with C3 and C4 complement proteins elevated, alongside increased ALT, AST, and ALP, indicating hepatic disturbance. Histopathology showed epithelial hyperplasia and lamellar fusion in gills, tubular degeneration in kidneys, and vacuolated hepatocytes in the liver. Positive control fish maintained nearly normal tissue architecture, supporting the protective role of FBS. Overall, T4 ammonia exposure induced multi-level disturbances affecting growth, hematology, serum chemistry, and tissue integrity. FBS mitigated these effects, maintaining better survival, growth, and physiological health. Discussion and conclusion High ammonia levels are a significant stressor for koi carp, causing hematological, enzymatic, and histopathological abnormalities Decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit impair oxygen transport, while elevated liver enzymes indicate metabolic dysfunction. Histopathological changes in the gills, kidney and liver indicate direct tissue damage and confirm the multi- organ toxicity of ammonia (Das et al., 2004; Gao et al., 2020). Research has shown that exposure of fish to nitrite will decrease the amount of immunoglobulin IgM and lysozyme (Ciji and Akhtar, 2020). This is also agrees with the findings of this study (Table4). it was found that the change in the results of some researchers (Garcia et al., 2020) showed that the decrease in MDA levels after exposure of lamprey fish to diesel oil contaminants is likely to indicate a relationship between increased antioxidant protection, MDA metabolism and MDA excretion in water. There was no significant difference between the control and 1 groups in terms of MDA content, but it increased with increasing ammonia content. This indicates that FBS has been able to inhibit the negative effects of ammonia, but this problem has shown itself in groups 3 and 4. According to the research, it is necessary to conduct additional research on the removal of FBS on other fish, in larger scale and for a longer period of storage. It is obvious that since nitrogenous substances are one of the main problems of aquaculture farms, this additional research can be effective in reducing such toxic substances. Ammonia nitrogen is a common environmental limiting factor in aquaculture that can accumulate rapidly in water and reach toxic concentrations. In most aquatic environments, fish are vulnerable to the toxic effects of high levels of ammonia nitrogen. It has been determined that the toxic effects of ammonia nitrogen on fish are multi-mechanistic. Therefore, the aim of this review is to investigate the various toxic effects of ammonia nitrogen on fish, including oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, tissue damage, and immune response. Conflict of interest The authors declare no conflict of interest. Acknowledgment The authors thank the ornamental fish breeding center for providing experimental fish and laboratory staff for technical assistance with water analysis, blood sampling, and histopathology. 1 16 2024/09/14 1403/6/24 2025/12/31 1404/10/10 سمانه ادیبی Samaneh Adibi گروه علوم و محیط زیست، دانشگاه آزاد اسلامی واحد علوم و تحقیقات، تهران، ایران Iran Samaneh.adibi@gmail.com مهدی رمضانی Mehdi Ramezani گروه علوم و محیط زیست، دانشگاه آزاد اسلامی واحد علوم و تحقیقات، تهران، ایران Iran dr.mramezani@yahoo.com شاپور کاکولکی Shapour Kakoolaki موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی، تهران، ایران Iran bsh443@gmail.com رضا کاظم پور Reza Kazempoor گروه بهداشت و بیماری‌های آبزیان، واحد علوم و تحقیقات،دانشگاه آزاد اسلامی، تهران، ایران Iran rkbs-kh@yahoo.com Ammonia Antibody-enzyme Bioaccumulation Liver indices Toxicity FBS ماهی کوی بی سولفیت سدیم آمونیاک آب مخازن شاخص خونی Capkin, E., Birincioglu, S. and Altinok, I., (2009). 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مقاله علمی – پژوهشی:‌ جداسازی فلزات سنگین با استفاده از روش استخراج متوالی و تعیین شاخص‌های آلودگی در رسوبات رودخانه سیروان (سنندج) Separation of heavy metals using sequential extraction of heavy metals and determination of pollution indices in the Sirvan River sediments (Sanandaj) 1 1 آلاینده‌های رسوبات به‌‌ویژه فلزات سنگین امکان ایجاد اثرات مستقیم بر ارگانیسم‌های ساکن رسوب دارند و می‌توانند به طور غیر‌مستقیم بر انسان و سایر موجودات تأثیر منفی بگذارند. رودخانه سیروان بعد از تلاقی دو شاخه اصلی گاوه رود و قشلاق تشکیل شده است. شاخه قشلاق به دلیل مجاورت با شهر سنندج و صنایع اطراف این شهر دارای حجم زیادی از فاضلاب‌های شهری و صنعتی است که اغلب بدون تصفیه به رودخانه تخلیه می‌شوند. مطالعه حاضر با هدف تعیین غلظت کل و بخش‌های پایدار و ناپایدار در استخراج متوالی و تعیین شاخص‌های آلودگی فلزات سنگین‌ روی، مس، نیکل، سرب و کادمیم از رسوبات شش ایستگاه از رودخانه سیروان به روش استخراج متوالی در سال 1402 انجام شد. نتایج نشان داد که میانگین غلظت (±SE) فلزات سنگین روی، مس، نیکل، سرب و کادمیم (میلی‌گرم برکیلوگرم وزن خشک) به‌ترتیب در بخش غلظت کل برابر 37/27±76/75،‌ 52/7±13/21، ‌25/5±84/17، 10/4‌±77/12 ‌و‌ 21/0±75/0،‌ در‌ بخش ‌پایدار ‌برابر 03/19±16/63،‌ 09/8±19/26،‌ 35/6±93/24‌، 39/4‌±64/14 ‌و 07/0±32/0‌‌ و‌‌‌ در ‌‌بخش ‌ناپایدار ‌برابر 03/5±80/10‌،‌ 00/1±56/3‌، 53/0±01/2‌،‌‌ 65/0±65/2 ‌‌و 07/0±23/0‌ میلی‌گرم برکیلوگرم وزن خشک بود. در بررسی نتایح بخش‌های پایدار (منابع طبیعی) و ناپایدار (منابع انسان‌ساخت)، رسوبات و براساس شاخص زمین‌انباشتگی (Igeo) مشخص شد که به‌جز فلز کادمیم‌، میانگین سایر فلزات مورد بررسی در بخش پایدار بیشتر از بخش ناپایدار (قابل دسترس موجودات زنده)، است. همچنین بالا بودن مقادیر درجه آلودگی (13/35) و شاخص آلودگی (60/20) فلز کادمیم حاکی از تأثیر فعالیت‌های انسانی در آلودگی و انباشت این فلز در رسوبات منطقه است. نتایج نشان داد که در واقع، بیش از نیمی از غلظت کل فلزات روی، مس، نیکل، سرب در رسوبات رودخانه سیروان، منشأ طبیعی دارند و برای تعیین و ارزیابی آلودگی و تعیین دسترسی زیستی فلزات برای موجودات زنده بهتر است از بخش‌های پایدار و ناپایدار فلزات سنگین استفاده کرد و نمی‌توان تنها به تعیین غلظت کل فلزات سنگین اکتفا نمود. 2 Introduction In recent decades, a broad spectrum of environmental pollution issues have arisen as by-products of enhanced and magnified human activities (Sener et al., 2023). Heavy metals, due to their strong physiological toxicity and non-degradability, pose a significant threat to environmental security and the health of humans (Zarei et al., 2023). Sediments, which are sinks of heavy metals in rivers, continuously discharge these highly toxic elements into surface waters due to their high metal transfer capacity (Kang et al., 2023). The ionic nature of heavy metals, mineral material content and size of particles in sediments, and adsorption intensity of the metals are important characteristics governing their distribution in sediments (Das et al., 2023). The Sirvan River, where the city of Sanandaj and surrounding industries are located, has a wealth of urban and industrial wastewater often pouring into the river without any treatment or exposure to environmental laws (Mashanir Electrical Engineering Services Company, 2018). Metals tend to have diverse physical and chemical properties regarding chemical reactions, toxicity, transport, and bioavailability. This reinforces the need to conduct chemical fractionation studies to ascertain the source and nature of bonding between heavy metals and sediments (Kang et al., 2017). Sequential extraction of sediments, which was conducted in five successive steps, separates resistant fractions (exchangeable, iron and manganese oxides, and organic matter), representing the product of anthropogenic metal input, from the resistant fraction (residual) responsible for the natural presence of metals in the Earth's crust (Zakir et al., 2008). Xue et al. (2023) analyzed heavy metals Zn, Cu, Cr, Cd, Ni, and Pb in sediments of the Weihe River in China. They identified the mean concentrations of As, Pb, Zn, Ni, Cr, Hg, Cu, and Cd as 15.42, 27.27, 88.05, 31.05, 75.00, 0.13, 29.47, and 1.05 mg/kg, respectively. Environmental pollution was assessed with the geo-accumulation index. Khalili et al. (2020) compared heavy metals within sediments in Haraz River with the Pollution Load Index (PLI) and the Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo). They concluded that the PLI values in summer were below one, indicating low or no sediment pollution, and PLI values in winter were above one, indicating sediment pollution in the Haraz River. The present study was conducted to determine the total, resistant, and non-resistant levels of heavy metals Zn, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Cd and to assess pollution indices in sediment samples collected from six stations in the Sirvan River of Sanandaj in summer and winter of 2023-2024. Methodology Sediment sampling was carried out in the Sirvan River (Gavehroud and Qeshlaq branches) at six stations. A sediment sample was collected from each station by Van Veen grab sampler in this study. In the preparation of the samples, the sediment samples were freeze-dried using a freeze dryer under a cold condition. The toxic heavy metals Zn, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Cd were analyzed using the sequential extraction procedure (Tessier et al., 1979). There are five steps in the Tessier procedure: steps 1 to 3 are the non-resistant fractions, step 4 is the resistant fraction, and step 5 is the total concentration in the sequential extraction procedure. The metals were analyzed quantitatively by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy with flame and graphite furnace systems (D2 Thermo M5, Electron Corporation AA Series Model) in the Instrumental Analysis Laboratory of the Caspian Sea Ecology Research Institute (APHA, 2017). A control sample was taken and added to the device along with all samples. Data were normalized through the application of SPSS software version 18, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to find the difference in mean metal content over different seasons. T-test was used to find the comparison between mean metal content in resistant and non-resistant fractions (Nasiri, 2009). In addition, heavy metal pollution indices in Sanandaj Sirvan River sediments, including the Müller Geochemical Accumulation Index (Igeo), Contamination Factor (CF), Contamination Degree (CD), and Pollution Load Index (PLI), were calculated. Results The bioavailable fraction is the percentage of heavy metals that, in the most favorable reduction and pH conditions, can be released and become available to organisms for causing toxicity (Sundaray et al., 2011). Exchangeable fraction is directly absorbed by aquatic organisms, while the carbonate, reducible, and oxidizable fractions can be mobilized from sediments during environmental changes such as pH, temperature, redox conditions, and salinity shifts (Wang et al., 2015; Ma et al., 2016; Huang et al., 2017). Overall, during the summer and winter of the year (2023–2024), the mean levels of the studied metals in the resistant fraction (natural sources) were higher compared to the non-resistant fraction (anthropogenic sources). This implies that the sources of heavy metals such as Zn, Cu, Ni, and Pb are predominantly natural and geochemical with minimal contribution from human activities. Cd level during summer was higher in resistant fraction (anthropogenic sources) than in resistant fraction (natural sources), while during winter, it was nearly similar in both fractions. Besides this, the trend of average concentrations in both the resistant and non-resistant fractions was also identical in all seasons: Zn was more concentrated, and Cd was least among metals being investigated. Igeo values for Ni indicated a pollution class of zero, i.e., "unpolluted.". Zn, Cu, and Pb were assigned to pollution class one, which is an "unpolluted to moderately polluted" status. Cd, however, was assigned to pollution class four, which is a "heavily polluted" status. The results also revealed that Ni had the lowest value of Contamination Factor (CF) and Cd had the highest CF value. Similarly, Cd exhibited the highest Contamination Degree (CD) and the lowest was that of Ni. On the basis of Pollution Load Index (PLI), the total metal concentration was highest in winter, and the non-resistant metal proportion in summer was lowest. Statistical comparison by ANOVA revealed a significant difference between the mean total metal concentration in the summer and winter months (p< 0.05). There was no difference observed in the mean concentrations within stations one to six (P > 0.05). Further, a statistical difference (p<0.05) was observed between the non-resistant and resistant fractions of the discussed metals based on the t-test. Discussion and conclusion In the current study, sequential extraction method was used to study the natural and anthropogenic sources of metallic elements Zn, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Cd in the sediments of the Sirvan River. Environmental chemical conditions, emerging pollutants, and physical parameters are the most important influences on local sediments' heavy metal pollution (Zhang and Wang, 2020). Analysis of the total concentrations of the non-essential metals Pb and Cd in the different stations and seasons revealed that Pb registered the maximum mean concentration of the non-essential metals, particularly during winter. Anthropogenic inputs like boat traffic and urban, industrial, and agricultural wastewater discharge are primarily responsible for the elevated concentrations of Pb in the sediments (Vieira et al., 2016). Seasonal analysis of heavy metals during summer and winter sediments of (2023–2024) indicated that, excluding Cd, the residual fraction of Zn, Cu, Ni and Pb was significantly larger than others. It reflects their source is mainly natural and geochemical in origin instead of having minimal anthropogenic input. The residual fraction, due to its silicate complexation, will be environmentally stable under variable conditions and will not be bioavailable to aquatic life (Moore et al., 2015). Conventional methods are unable to detect and differentiate this contamination fraction. Therefore, in order to assess pollution and study the bioavailability of heavy metals to biological systems, it is not sufficient to strive for measurements on total concentration alone. Based on the indices of contamination, Contamination Factor (CF), Contamination Degree (CD), and Pollution Load Index (PLI), Sirvan River sediments are exposed to heavy metal pollution at low to high levels. The Igeo indicated that the heavy metals under investigation ranged from unpolluted to highly polluted conditions. Generally, semi-essential and essential components (Zn, Cu, and Ni) and non-essential component (Pb) in Sirvan River sediments are not believed to be very hazardous on average. However, Cd with the highest figures in all the indices and reflecting high human impact in the region may have deleterious effects on organisms in the study area. From the location of the study area and the diversity of land uses particularly urban, industrial, and agriculture, it is evident that the region undergoes various types of pollution, e.g., river sediment pollution with heavy metals. Therefore, efficient prevention, control, and reduction management plans for heavy metal contamination of sediments must be carried out. Estimation of the level of pollution of agricultural lands around the Sirvan River, nearby industries, and urban sewage networks will be helpful in avoiding the entry of heavy metals into the food chain and reducing the level of contamination in these areas. Generally, the Sirvan River sediments are not critical regarding heavy metal pollution by Zn, Cu, Ni, and Pb. However, the high values of Cd's Contamination Degree (13.35) and Contamination Factor (20.60) indicate a significant role of human activity in contaminating and accumulating the metal in regional sediments. Conflict of Interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest Acknowledgment This research was supported by the Iranian Fisheries Science Research Institute (Ministry of Agriculture Jihad). We should acknowledge the necessity of thanking the staff of the Ecology Department of the Caspian Sea Ecology Research Center for their assistance in sampling and sample analysis. 17 35 2024/09/142025/10/1 1404/7/9 2025/12/312025/12/31 1404/10/10 مریم رضائی Maryam Rezaei پژوهشکده اکولوژی دریای خزر، موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج جهاد کشاورزی، مازندران، ساری Iran maryam_rezaei_83@yahoo.com حسن نصراله زاده ساروی Hassan Nasrollah Zadeh Saravi پژوهشکده اکولوژی دریای خزر، موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج جهاد کشاورزی، مازندران، ساری Iran hnsaravi@gmail.com حوریه یونسی پور Hourieh Younesipour پژوهشکده اکولوژی دریای خزر، موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج جهاد کشاورزی، مازندران، ساری Iran younesipourh@yahoo.com شراره فیروزکندیان Sharareh Firouz Kandian پژوهشکده اکولوژی دریای خزر، موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج جهاد کشاورزی، مازندران، ساری Iran shf50@yahoo.com احد احمدنژاد Ahad Ahmad Nejhad پژوهشکده اکولوژی دریای خزر، موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج جهاد کشاورزی، مازندران، ساری Iran ahmadi.ahad@yahoo.com Heavy metals Sediments Resistant and Non-Resistant Fractions Pollution Index Sirvan River Kurdistan. فلزات سنگین رسوبات بخش پایدار و ناپایدار شاخص آلودگی رودخانه سیروان کردستان Abidi, M., Yahyaoui, A., Ben Amor, R., Chouba, L. and Gueddari, M., 2022. 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مقاله علمی – پژوهشی:‌ وضعیت ذخایر خرچنگ شناگر آبی (Portunus segnis Forskål, 1775) در آبهای خلیج‌فارس و دریای عمان (استان هرمزگان) Status of blue swimming crab (Portunus segnis) stock in the waters of Persian Gulf and Oman Sea (Hormuzgan Province) 1 1 خرچنگ شناگر آبی (Portunus segnis) یکی از گونه‌های مهم سخت‌پوستان در اکوسیستم‌های ساحلی و مناطق مصبی جنوب کشور به‌شمار می‌رود که علاوه بر نقش اکولوژیک، از ارزش اقتصادی قابل‌توجهی در صنعت شیلات برخوردار است. طی سال‌های 1403-1402 درمجموع 2042 عدد خرچنگ شناگرآبی (1025 نر و 1017 ماده) به صورت ماهانه در مناطق تخلیه صید و صیدگاه‌های قشم، سیریک، کنگ و بندرعباس مورد زیست‌سنجی طولی و وزنی قرار گرفته و شاخص‌های زیستی، رابطه عرض کاراپاس و وزن و سقف قابل برداشت مورد بررسی قرار گرفتند. میانگین (± انحراف معیار) طول در این مطالعه برابر با 8/11 (±5/1) سانتی‌متر بود. با تفکیک جنسیت، میانگین طول در نمونه‌های نر برابر با 1/12 (±6/1) سانتی‌متر و در نمونه‌های ماده برابر با 4/11 (±8/1) سانتی‌متر محاسبه شد. نتایج بررسی نشان داد، فراوانی نسبی جنس ماده در بیشتر ماه‌های نمونه‌برداری بیشتر از جنس نر بوده، به‌طوری‌که در مجموع کل دوره، 25/50 درصداز نمونه‌ها نر و 75/49 درصد جنس ماده بوده‌اند. نسبت جنسی کل در مجموع برابر با 0/1: 0/1M:F= به‌دست آمد. در رابطه بین عرض کاراپاس (سانتی‌متر) – وزن بدن (گرم) خرچنگ شناگر آبی در جنس ماده W=0.00902CW2.72 و جنس نر W=0.0476CW3.13 و رشد به‌ترتیب به ‌صورت آلومتریک منفی و مثبت مشاهده شد. شاخص‌های تاریخچه زندگی VBGF برای این خرچنگ شامل 85/17 سانتی‌متر (عرض کاراپاس بی‌نهایت) و نیز K برابر با 79/0 در سال و بر اساس تحلیل آنالیز خطی صید مرگ‌ومیر کل (91/ 1Z= در سال)، مرگ‌ومیر طبیعی (60/1 در سال) و مرگ‌ومیر ناشی از صید (صیادی) (31/0 در سال) محاسبه ‌شدند. بر اساس نتایج، مقدار حداکثر برداشت مجاز (MSY) برای این گونه حدود ۲۷۶ تن و عرض کاراپاس بهینه صید حدود ۱۳ سانتی‌متر پیشنهاد می‌شود. با توجه به ضریب بهره‌برداری پایین، ذخایر خرچنگ شناگر آبی در منطقه در وضعیت نسبتاً مطلوبی قرار دارند. با این‌حال، برای حفظ پایداری جمعیت و جلوگیری از کاهش ذخایر، اجرای راهکارهای مدیریتی از قبیل: تعیین حداقل عرض مجاز کاراپاس در صید تجاری، محدودسازی فصل صید در دوره‌های حساس زیستی، پایش منظم جمعیت و به‌روزرسانی داده‌های بهره‌برداری و مشارکت جوامع محلی در برنامه‌های مدیریت منابع دریایی پیشنهاد می‌گردند. 2 Introduction The blue swimming crab (Portunus segnis) is a commercially significant decapod species in the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea, particularly along the southern coasts of Iran. Among the family Portunidae, P. segnis stands out due to its abundance and economic value. Historically misidentified as P. pelagicus, recent morphological and genetic studies (Lai et al., 2010) have confirmed its presence and dominance in the region. The species is widely distributed across the western Indian Ocean, the Red Sea, Mediterranean Sea, and West African coasts (Hasan and Noël, 2008). Despite its importance, sustainable exploitation of P. segnis remains a challenge due to increasing fishing pressure and environmental changes. Previous studies (Safaei, 2013; Giraldes et al., 2016; Yeşilyurt et al., 2022) have explored its population dynamics, reproductive biology, and growth patterns, revealing significant regional variations. Notably, invasive populations in the Mediterranean exhibit higher growth rates compared to native populations in the Persian Gulf, likely due to ecological factors such as predator pressure and food competition. This study aims to assess the biological status and exploitation levels of P. segnis in Hormuzgan Province, Iran. It seeks to estimate key population parameters, evaluate mortality rates, and propose management strategies for sustainable harvesting. This study is designed to address three key questions: First, what are the growth and mortality characteristics of P. segnis in the southern waters of Iran? Second, how do these biological traits compare with the global populations of the species? Third, what management strategies are essential to prevent overexploitation? By combining extensive field observations with advanced modeling techniques, the research presents a comprehensive picture of the population structure and exploitation status of P. segnis. The integration of biological indicators with fisheries data not only deepens scientific understanding of the species in the region but also provides a practical framework for localized resource management. Methodology The study was conducted over a 12-month period from September 2023 to August 2024. Monthly samples of P. segnis were collected from major landing sites in Kong, Qeshm, Bandar Abbas, and Sirik. Each month, 40–50 individuals were randomly selected and subjected to biometric analysis. Carapace width (CW) was measured using digital calipers (±0.01 cm), and body weight was recorded with precision scales (±0.01 g). Sex determination was based on abdominal morphology. Growth patterns were analyzed using the von Bertalanffy growth model via ELEFAN I (Pauly, 1998) in TropFishR. The relationship between CW and weight was modeled using the equation W= aCWᵇ, with regression parameters estimated separately for males and females. Growth type (isometric vs. allometric) was determined using Pauly’s t-test. Mortality rates were estimated using Pauly’s empirical formula for natural mortality (M), catch curve analysis for total mortality (Z), and the difference method for fishing mortality (F=Z–M). Exploitation rate (E=F/Z) and optimal biological reference points (Fopt, Flimit) were calculated following Patterson (1992). Cohort analysis and length-frequency distributions were used to identify age classes and recruitment patterns. Maximum Constant Yield (MCY) was estimated using Welch’s method (2002), incorporating 10-year average catch data and environmental variability indices. All statistical analyses were performed in R. Results A total of 2,042 P. segnis specimens (1,025 males, 1,017 females) were analyzed. Carapace width ranged from 4 to 19 cm in males and 5 to 17 cm in females, with a mean CW of 12.1 cm for males and 11.4 cm for females. The most frequent size class was 10–12 cm, accounting for 43% of the population. Statistical analysis confirmed significant sexual dimorphism in size (p<0.05). The CW–weight relationship showed allometric growth, with males exhibiting higher weight at equivalent CW than females. Regression equations were W=0.0667CW3.13 for males and W=0.0902CW2.72 for females, with R² values of 0.90 and 0.88, respectively. Sex ratio analysis across months revealed near parity (1:1), with minor fluctuations. Only in September 2024 did females significantly outnumber males (p<0.05). Seasonal trends indicated peak abundance of mature individuals from December to May, while juveniles dominated from June to September. Growth parameters estimated via von Bertalanffy model were: CW∞=17.85 cm, K=0.79 yr⁻¹, t₀=–0.51 yr, and Φ′=2.14. These values suggest rapid growth and high turnover. Mortality rates were Z=1.91 yr⁻¹, M=1.60 yr⁻¹, F=0.31 yr⁻¹, and E=0.16, indicating low fishing pressure relative to natural mortality. Optimal exploitation benchmarks were Fopt=0.80 and Flimit=1.05. The estimated MCY for Hormuzgan waters was 276 tons, based on a 10-year average catch and environmental index c=0.7. Cohort analysis revealed four distinct age classes, with recruitment peaking in April and growth slowing from September to November. Conclusion and discussion The findings underscore the ecological and economic importance of P. segnis in southern Iranian waters. Despite its commercial value, the species faces threats from habitat degradation and unregulated fishing. The observed low exploitation rate (E=0.16) suggests current fishing pressure is below biological limits, offering a window for proactive management. Seasonal growth patterns and recruitment dynamics highlight the need for temporal fishing regulations. The presence of juveniles during summer months suggests that restricting harvest during this period could enhance stock sustainability. Additionally, the allometric growth pattern and sexual dimorphism in size warrant gear modifications to reduce bycatch and protect smaller individuals. Comparative analysis with global studies (Josileen and Menon, 2007; Dineshbabu et al., 2008; Mehanna et al., 2013) showed regional differences in growth rates and CW∞, likely due to gear selectivity, sampling methods, and ecological conditions. For instance, CW∞ in Oman was 10.3 cm for males, while in India it reached up to 22.3 cm. Recommendations include implementing minimum legal-size limits, enhancing data collection on catch and effort, and promoting selective fishing gear. Establishing marine protected areas during peak spawning seasons could further safeguard reproductive stocks. Conflict of interest The authors declare no conflict of interest related to the conduct or publication of this research. 37 50 2024/09/142025/10/12025/09/9 1404/6/18 2025/12/312025/12/312025/12/31 1404/10/10 تورج ولی نسب Tooraj Valinassab موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی، تهران، ایران Iran t_valinassab@yahoo.com آرزو وهاب‌ نژاد Arezoo Vahabnezhad موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی، تهران، ایران Iran avn9400@gmail.com محمد درویشی Mohammad Darvishi پژوهشکده اکولوژی خلیج‌فارس و دریای‌عمان، موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی، بندرعباس، ایران Iran m.darvishi70@yahoo.com بهنام دقوقی Behnam Daghoghi پژوهشکده اکولوژی خلیج‌فارس و دریای‌عمان، موسسه تحقیقات علوم شیلاتی کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی، بندرعباس، ایران Iran b.daghooghi@gmail.com The authors declare no conflict of interest related to the conduct or publication of this research. پتانسیل مولدین بر اساس طول ذخیره مرگ‌ومیر عرض بهینه صید کاراپاس خلیج‌فارس دریای عمان Annabi, A., Bardelli, R., Vizzini, S. and Mancinelli, G., 2018. 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مقاله علمی – پژوهشی:‌ اثر تعداد دفعات غذادهی بر عملکرد رشد و تغذیه‌ای فیل ماهی (Huso huso) جوان در شرایط زمستانه Effect of feeding frequency on growth and nutritional performance in juvenile Beluga sturgeon (Huso huso) under winter condition 1 1 در این تحقیق، اثر سه وعده غذادهی 1، 2 و 3 بار تغذیه در شبانه روز روی رشد و شاخص‌های تغذیه‌ای فیل ماهی (Huso huso) جوان مورد بررسی قرارگرفت. فیل ماهیان پرورشی (4/10 ± 8/144 گرم) در سه تیمار (شامل 1، 2 و 3 بار غذادهی در روز) و هر یک با سه تکرار در مخازن بتونی گرد با حجم 800 لیتر به تعداد 20 عدد در هر مخزن توزیع شدند و در فصل زمستان (8/1±8/9 درجه سانتی‌‌گراد) به مدت 10 هفته و بر اساس اشتها مورد تغذیه قرارگرفتند. هر دو هفته یکبار، وزن و طول کل ماهیان اندازه گیری و شاخص‌های رشد و تغذیه محاسبه شدند. نتایج نشان داد، با وجود این‌که در شاخص‌های وزن نهایی، وزن کسب شده، شاخص وضعیت، افزایش وزن بدن، نرخ رشد ویژه، ضریب تبدیل غذایی و شاخص تغذیه اختیاری اختلافی بین تیمارها وجود نداشت (05/0p>)، اما در اکثر شاخص‌ها، ماهیان تغذیه شده در تیمار با 3 وعده غذادهی به لحاظ عددی، وضعیت بهتری نشان دادند. همچنین ضریب تغییرات وزن در بین گروه‌ها، اختلافی را آشکار نساخت (05/0p>)، ضمن این‌که در طول دوره نیز تلفاتی مشاهده نشد. نتایج این تحقیق نشان داد، به رغم پایین بودن دمای آب، فیل ماهیان نیاز به تغذیه دارند و 3 بار غذادهی روزانه می‌تواند رشد مطلوب‌‌تری ایجاد نماید، اما با در نظر گرفتن عدم اختلاف معنی‌‌دار در شاخص‌های رشد و تغذیه و کاهش هزینه‌های تولید، یک‌بار غذادهی در روز می‌تواند در محدوده وزنی مورد آزمایش و در شرایط زمستانه نیز مورد استفاده پرورش‌دهندگان قرار گیرد. 2 Introduction The growth of aquatic animals in cultured systems depends on various factors such as food consumed, feeding frequencies, diet quality, the amount of consumed feed, and the ability of fish to digest and absorb nutrients (Falahatkar et al., 2014). Meeting nutritional requirements and proper nutrition management are crucial for increasing production efficiency in farmed fish. In aquaculture conditions, cost reduction is essential, with nutrition accounting for approximately half of the current costs on a farm. The quantity and quality of diets, along with feeding management practices such as feeding frequencies, feeding methods, feeding amounts, and timing, can impact final product costs. Appropriate feeding frequencies not only improve feed conversion efficiency and reduce pollution from overfeeding but also enhance growth and reduce size disparities in fish stocks. Nutritional management is a critical aspect to consider in sturgeon aquaculture, emphasizing proper nutrition and feeding frequency at different temperatures (Hung, 2017). Given the high growth rate of Beluga sturgeon (Huso huso) in culture systems and the interest of fish farmers in cultivating this species (Falahatkar et al., 2009), especially in natural waters subject to seasonal fluctuations, this study aimed to investigate the effect of different feeding frequencies on the growth and nutritional indices of juvenile Beluga sturgeon in winter conditions. Methodology This study evaluated the effect of three feeding frequencies (1, 2, and 3 times per day) on the growth and nutritional indices of juvenile Beluga sturgeon. Farmed Beluga sturgeon (144.8±10.4 g) were distributed into three treatments, each with three replicates in circular concrete tanks (800 L volume) with 20 fish per tank. The feeding trial took place during the winter period (8.9±1.8°C) from January to March over a 10-week period. Fish were fed approximately 0.1-0.3% of their body weight per feeding at 9 AM, 12 PM, and 3 PM, based on appetite and water temperature. Fish weight and total length were measured individually every 2-week interval, and growth and feeding indices were calculated (Falahatkar, 2014). Statistical analysis was performed using One-way ANOVA and Tukey as a post-hoc test at the level of p<0.05. Results Over the 10-week rearing period, there were no significant differences in fish weight and length among the different feeding frequency treatments (p>0.05). While there was no statistical difference in final weight, weight gain, condition factor, body weight increase, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, and voluntary feeding intake among the treatments (p>0.05), fish fed three times a day generally exhibited better condition. The coefficient of variation in weight was lower in fish fed three times daily, although differences were not significant (p>0.05). No mortality was observed during the 10-week period, with 100% survival in all treatments. Discussion and conclusion This study examined the effects of different feeding frequencies on the growth and nutritional indices of juvenile Beluga sturgeon under winter conditions. After 10 weeks, no significant differences were observed in any of the measured indices across the 1, 2, or 3 feeding frequency treatments. All fish remained healthy with no mortality recorded. Previous studies have shown that limited feeding frequency leads to the adaptation of fish to consume larger amounts of food at feeding time, which in the long term can lead to increased digestive tract volume and increased appetite (Jobling, 1982; Rouhonen and Grove, 1996). Moreover, optimal feeding frequency can enhance feed conversion efficiency, reduce pollution, promote growth, and minimize size variations in fish stocks (Ahmed, 2007; Hu et al., 2020). However, previous studies suggested different feeding rates for maximum growth or weight maintenance in winter conditions (Fang et al., 2010; Falahatkar et al., 2013). The present study showed a feeding rate of 0.8% of body weight yielded satisfactory growth. Although growth and nutritional indices did not differ significantly, further stocking management may be necessary to address size variations. In conclusion, feeding once daily, as opposed to three times, can reduce labor and production costs, provided that fish receive adequate food based on their requirements. Conflict of interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest for this study. Acknowledgements The authors acknowledge the Dr. Yousefpour Marine Fishes Restocking and Genetic Conservation Center (Siahkal, Guilan, Iran) and the Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Guilan for their support in conducting this research. 51 62 2024/09/142025/10/12025/09/92024/09/22 1403/7/1 2025/12/312025/12/312025/12/312025/12/31 1404/10/10 بهرام فلاحتکار Bahram Falahatkar گروه شیلات، دانشکده منابع طبیعی، دانشگاه گیلان، صومعه‌سرا، گیلان، ایران Iran falahatkar@guilan.ac.ir بهمن مکنت‌خواه Bahman Meknatkhah گروه شیلات، دانشکده منابع طبیعی، دانشگاه گیلان، صومعه‌سرا، گیلان، ایران Iran bahmanmeknatkhah@yahoo.com ایرج عفت پناه Iraj Efatpanah گروه شیلات، دانشکده منابع طبیعی، دانشگاه گیلان، صومعه‌سرا، گیلان، ایران Iran iefatpanah@yahoo.com سمانه پورسعید Samaneh Poursaeid گروه بیولوژی سلولی، مرکز بهداشت دانشگاه کنتیکت، فارمینگتون، کنتیکت، آمریکا آمریکا s.poursaeid@yaho.com Sturgeon Low temperature Feeding schedule Growth Size variation ماهی خاویاری دمای پایین برنامه غذادهی رشد اختلاف اندازه Ahmed, I., 2007. 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مقاله علمی – پژوهشی:‌ اثر حفاظتی پروبیوتیک‌‌های Lactobacillus acidophilus و L. plantarum در کاهش تاثیر آفلاتوکسین B1 خوراک بر شاخص‌‌های رشد، خون‌‌شناسی، بیوشیمیایی و کیفیت لاشه کپور معمولی (Cyprinus carpio) انگشت‌قد Protective effect of probiotics Lactobacillus acidophilus and L. plantarum in reducing the effects of dietary aflatoxin B1 on growth, hematology, biochemical and carcass quality indices in common carp fingerlings (Cyprinus carpio) 1 1 یکی از مشکلات مهم صنعت آبزی‌‌پروری، آلوده شدن خوراک آبزیان به سموم تولیدی از عوامل قارچی و مایکوتوکسین‌‌هاست. در سال‌‌های اخیر با توجه به جایگزینی منابع گیاهی با جانوری به ‌‌منظور دستیابی به خوراک کم هزینه، احتمال آلودگی خوراک آبزیان با آفلاتوکسین‌‌ها افزایش یافته است. از این‌رو، مطالعه حاضر با هدف بررسی اثرات حفاظتی پروبیوتیک‌‌های Lactobacillus plantarum و L. acidophilus در کاهش تاثیر آفلاتوکسین B1 خوراک بر شاخص‌‌های رشد، خون‌‌شناسی، بیوشیمیایی و کیفیت لاشه بچه‌‌ماهیان کپور معمولی انجام شد. بدین منظور، 240 عدد ماهی با میانگین وزنی 15 گرم در قالب 4 تیمار آزمایشی شامل: 1 (شاهد: کنترل)، 2 (خوراک حاوی 50 قسمت در بیلیون آفلاتوکسین B1 )، 3 (خوراک حاوی 50 قسمت در بیلیون آفلاتوکسین B1 و   108 واحد کلنی/ میلی‌‌لیتر/ کیلوگرم خوراک پروبیوتیک L. acidophilus)، 4 (خوراک حاوی 50 قسمت در بیلیون آفلاتوکسین B1 و 108 واحد کلنی/ میلی‌‌لیتر/ کیلوگرم خوراک پروبیوتیکL. plantarum) به ‌مدت 8 هفته تغذیه شدند. در پایان دوره آزمایش شاخص‌های رشد، خون‌‌شناسی، بیوشیمیایی و کیفیت لاشه مورد سنجش قرار گرفتند. نتایج نشان داد که شاخص‌های رشد تحت تاثیر آفلاتوکسین B1 قرار گرفتند (05/0>p) به‌طوری‌که شاخص‌های وزن نهایی، نرخ رشد ویژه و افزایش وزن بدن در ماهیان تغذیه شده با خوراک حاوی آفلاتوکسین، کاهش یافته و ضریب تبدیل خوراک افزایش یافتند (05/0>p). شاخص‌‌های خون‌‌شناسی (گلبول‌‌‌‌های سفید، گلبول‌‌های قرمز، هموگلوبین و هماتوکریت) نیز تحت تاثیر آفلاتوکسین B1  قرار گرفت و کاهش یافت (05/0>p). بر اساس نتایج مطالعه حاضر، از شاخص‌‌های بیوشیمیایی سرم، تری‌‌گلیسیرید و کلسترول در ماهیان تغذیه شده با آفلاتوکسین B1 کاهش و در ماهیان تغذیه شده با پروبیوتیک‌‌های L. acidophilus وL. plantarum  افزایش یافتند (05/0>p). گلوکز در ماهیان تغذیه شده با آفلاتوکسین B1  افزایش یافته و در ماهیان تغذیه شده با پروبیوتیک‌‌های L. acidophilus وL. plantarum  کاهش یافت (05/0>p). همچنین کاهش پروتئین و چربی و افزایش رطوبت لاشه در ماهیان تغذیه شده با آفلاتوکسین B1  به همراه پروبیوتیک L. plantarum مشاهده شد (05/0>p). بر اساس نتایج، افزودن پروبیوتیک‌‌های L. acidophilus و L. plantarum به خوراک، منجر به بهبود شاخص‌های رشد، بیوشیمیایی و کیفیت لاشه بچه‌‌ماهیان کپور معمولی شد. 2 Introduction The aquaculture industry faces challenges from feed contamination with mycotoxins, particularly aflatoxin B1, a potent carcinogen that impairs growth, immunity, liver function, and overall health in fish (Williams et al., 2004; Ayyat et al., 2018; Tasa et al., 2020). Cost-driven use of animal-derived feed ingredients increases the risk of fungal toxins, making mitigation strategies crucial (Allameh et al., 2005). Probiotics, especially Lactobacillus acidophilus and L. plantarum, can bind aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) via cell wall components, reducing its bioavailability and enhancing growth, nutrient utilization, and survival in fish (Haskard et al., 2001; Dawood et al., 2015; Gudadappanavar et al., 2017). This study evaluates the protective effects of these probiotics on growth, hematology, biochemistry, and carcass quality in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fingerlings fed AFB1 contaminated diets. Methodology The study was conducted at the Artemia and Aquaculture Research Institute (AARI), Urmia, Iran. A total of 240 fish (mean weight: 8 g) were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments: control, 50 ppb aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), 50 ppb AFB1 + L. acidophilus (5 × 10⁸ CFU/kg), and 50 ppb AFB1 + L. plantarum (5 × 10⁸ CFU/kg). Fish were maintained under controlled conditions for eight weeks. Growth performance (specific growth rate, weight gain, feed conversion ratio) was evaluated (Hamza et al., 2008). Hematological parameters, including WBC, RBC, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, were measured following standard protocols (Blaxhall and Daisley, 1973; Rehulka, 2000; Lewis et al., 2006). Serum triglycerides, cholesterol, and glucose were determined via enzymatic assays (Borges et al., 2004). Carcass composition was analyzed according to AOAC (2005). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA in SPSS. Results Growth indices were significantly affected by aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) (p<0.05). Fish fed AFB₁ showed higher final weight (FW), weight gain (WG), and specific growth rate (SGR), with a lower feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to control (p<0.05). Moreover, FCR was further reduced in fish receiving AFB₁ combined with L. acidophilus versus the AFB₁-only group (p<0.05). The number of white blood cells (WBC) and red blood cells (RBC) in fish fed the experimental diets decreased significantly (p<0.05) compared to the control diet. Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in fish fed diets containing AFB₁ and AFB₁ + L. plantarum were also significantly lower than those in the control group (p<0.05). Blood biochemical indices were significantly affected by aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) and the probiotics (p<0.05). Triglyceride, cholesterol, and glucose levels were reduced in the AFB₁-treated group compared to the control (p<0.05). Moreover, the combination of AFB₁ with probiotics resulted in a significant increase in triglyceride and cholesterol levels compared to the AFB₁-only group (p< 0.05). Analysis of the mean carcass composition revealed that protein and lipid contents in the diet containing AFB1 and L. plantarum were significantly reduced compared to the control group (p<0.05). Discussion and conclusion The study demonstrated that diets contaminated with aflatoxin B1 (AF B1) significantly impaired fish growth performance. AFB1, along with other mycotoxins, disrupts growth by damaging critical organs including the liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract that are essential for nutrient absorption, metabolism, and overall physiological homeostasis (Aggarwal et al., 2013). Consistent with these effects, hematological parameters such as red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit were significantly reduced in exposed fish, indicating cytotoxic impacts on hematopoietic organs, including the kidney and spleen (Moccia et al., 1984). Biochemical analyses revealed that AFB1 exposure disrupted fish metabolism, lowering serum triglycerides and cholesterol while raising glucose, reflecting hepatotoxicity and stress-related metabolic changes (Riche, 2007). AFB1 impairs liver enzymes, induces oxidative stress, and alters lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, leading to hyperglycemia. In contrast, dietary probiotics in common carp fingerlings improved these parameters, restoring triglyceride and cholesterol levels and reducing glucose, indicating enhanced metabolic balance. Probiotics likely exert protective effects by reducing stress, supporting gut health, and modulating metabolic pathways such as gluconeogenesis and lipolysis (Larsson & Lewander, 1973; Palmegiano et al., 1993), highlighting their potential to counteract aflatoxin-induced metabolic disruptions. No significant effects of AFB1 were observed on the fish carcass composition, though dietary toxins may disrupt protein and lipid metabolism (Ellis et al., 1991). In conclusion, AFB1 negatively impacted growth, hematological and biochemical parameters in common carp. Supplementation with probiotics was able to partially mitigate these adverse effects, suggesting a protective role in maintaining physiological homeostasis and improving resilience against AFB1-induced stress. Conflict of interest All authors declare that they have no competing interests. Acknowledgement We wish to express our sincere gratitude to the officials of the Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, for their support and the resources provided throughout the course of this study. We also extend our special thanks to the colleagues at the Artemia Reference Center for their invaluable guidance and contributions during the research process. 63 79 2024/09/142025/10/12025/09/92024/09/222025/06/3 1404/3/13 2025/12/312025/12/312025/12/312025/12/312025/12/31 1404/10/10 احمد حسن پور فتاحی Ahmad Hasanpour Fattahi گروه شیلات و آبزیان، دانشکده منابع طبیعی، دانشگاه ارومیه، ارومیه ایران Iran a.hasanpourf@gmail.com سعید مشکینی Saeid Meshkini گروه بهداشت و کنترل کیفی مواد غذایی، دانشکده دامپزشکی، دانشگاه ارومیه، ارومیه ایران Iran s.meshkiniy@urmia.ac.ir بهروز آتشبار کنگرلوئی Behrooz Atashbar Kangharlooei گروه اکولوژی و مدیریت ذخایر آبی، پژوهشکده آرتمیا و آبزی‌پروری، دانشگاه ارومیه، ارومیه، ایران Iran atashbarb@gmail.com Aflatoxin B1 Probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus Lactobacillus plantarum Common carp آفلاتوکسین B1 پروبیوتیک Lactobacillus acidophilus Lactobacillus plantarum کپور معمولی Aggarwal, V., Deng, X., Tuli, A. and Goh, K.S., 2013. 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مقاله علمی – پژوهشی:‌ ویژگی‌های ریختی گونه مرواریدماهی قفقاز (Alburnus hohenackeri) در حوضه آبریز هریرود Morphological characteristics of the North Caucasian bleak species (Alburnus hohenackeri) in the Harirud basin 1 1 این پژوهش با هدف بررسی و مقایسه ویژگی‌های ریختی جمعیت‌های مرواریدماهی (Alburnus hohenackeri) در حوضه هری، با استفاده از روش ریخت‌سنجی هندسی صورت گرفت. برای این منظور، 141 نمونه از رودخانه‌های مختلف حوضه هری شامل کانال هریرود 1، کانال هریرود 2 و هریرود جمع‌آوری شدند. تصاویر جانبی سمت چپ این نمونه‌ها تهیه شده و سپس 13 نقطه لندمارک با استفاده از نرم‌افزار tpsDig2 رقومی‌سازی گردید. پس از انجام واکاوی پروکراست برای حذف اثر اندازه، داده‌های شکل با سه روش آماری چندمتغیره شامل: (۱) تحلیل مؤلفه‌های اصلی (PCA) برای بررسی کلی تغییرپذیری، (۲) تحلیل متغیرهای کانونی (CVA) برای تفکیک بین‌گروهی و (۳) تحلیل خوشه‌ای با الگوریتم UPGMA برای طبقه‌بندی جمعیت‌ها، مورد تحلیل قرار گرفتند. نتایج تحلیل مؤلفه‌های اصلی (PCA) نشان‌دهنده همپوشانی قابل‌توجه بین جمعیت‌ها بود که حاکی از عدم تفاوت معنادار ریختی بین آنهاست. اما در تحلیل متغیرهای کانونی، جدایی کامل بین سه جمعیت مشاهده شد و نتایج تحلیل خوشه‌ای نیز نشان داد که جمعیت کانال هریرود 2 از دو جمعیت دیگر متمایز است. این تفاوت نتایج احتمالاً ناشی از تفاوت روش‌های آماری به‌کاررفته است به‌طوری‌که تحلیل متغیرهای کانونی تمرکز بیشتری بر تفکیک جمعیت‌ها و تغییرات بین گروه‌ها دارد درحالی‌که تحلیل مؤلفه‌های اصلی عمدتاً واریانس کلی داده‌ها را بررسی می‌کند. این نتایج نشان می‌دهند که عوامل محیطی ممکن است نقش مهمی در ایجاد تفاوت‌های ریختی بین جمعیت‌ها ایفاء کنند. نتایج این پژوهش می‌تواند به عنوان داده پایه در برنامه‌ریزی‌های مدیریتی و حفاظتی به‌ویژه در زمینه حفظ تنوع زیستی، جلوگیری از کاهش ذخایر و تدوین استراتژی‌های بهره‌برداری پایدار مورد استفاده قرار گیرد. همچنین شناسایی تفاوت‌های ریختی بین جمعیت‌ها می‌تواند به مطالعات بعدی در زمینه ارتباط این تفاوت‌ها با عوامل محیطی کمک کند. 2 Introduction Fish biodiversity is fundamental to the stability and functionality of aquatic ecosystems. A detailed understanding of fish species, particularly native taxa, is essential for effective resource management and conservation planning. Alburnus hohenackeri, a native species of the Harirud River basin in the family Leuciscidae, typically inhabits vegetated riverine areas and freshwater lakes, but it can also tolerate slightly brackish waters. Although naturally distributed across the Caspian Sea basin, this species has been unintentionally introduced into several other aquatic systems, including Zarivar, Maravin, Hamun, Sistan, and Harirud (Naderi and Abdoli, 2004). Given the ecological heterogeneity of these habitats, investigating morphological variation among different populations is particularly important. Geometric morphometrics, which employs anatomical landmark points, provides a robust tool for analyzing shape variation and exploring habitat influences, phenotypic plasticity, and species identification (Park et al., 2013). Previous studies in Iran have revealed substantial morphological diversity among various fish species. Gholami and Keyvani (2024) examined 487 specimens of Alburnus hohenackeri from 12 rivers using 13 anatomical landmarks and reported pronounced differences in body shape, head structure, mouth position, and fin placement, particularly in populations from the Aras River. Comparable patterns of morphological variation have been documented in Alburnus mossulensis (Keivany et al., 2016) and Capoeta damascina (Razavipoor et al., 2014). Despite its ecological importance, however, the morphological characteristics of A. hohenackeri populations in the Harirud basin remain poorly understood. The present study therefore aims to investigate and compare the morphological features of these populations using geometric morphometric techniques. The results will provide critical baseline data to inform conservation initiatives, support sustainable resource management, and guide strategies for preserving freshwater biodiversity. Methodology This study employed geometric morphometric techniques to examine morphological variation among Alburnus hohenackeri populations in the Harirud River basin, focusing on three sites: Harirud Canal 1, Harirud Canal 2, and the Harirud River. A total of 141 specimens were obtained from the reference collection of the Ichthyology Museum at Isfahan University of Technology. The samples were originally collected in 2009 from the three sampling stations, while laboratory procedures and data analysis were conducted in 2019. Specimens were captured using beach seines and electrofishing, fixed in 10% buffered formalin, and preserved in 70% ethanol for long-term storage. For morphometric analysis, the left lateral side of each specimen was photographed, and 13 anatomical landmarks were digitized using TpsDig2 software. These landmarks were chosen based on distinct anatomical reference points covering the head, fins, and caudal peduncle, following the standard protocol of Cavalcanti et al. (1999). The digitized coordinates were aligned and scaled using Procrustes superimposition, and multivariate statistical analyses—including Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Canonical Variate Analysis (CVA), and Cluster Analysis—were conducted to identify morphological similarities and differences among populations. All analyses were performed using PAST and MorphoJ software. Results Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated that the first five principal components accounted for 73.52% of the total shape variation among Alburnus hohenackeri populations. These components were identified as the primary factors differentiating population structures. The distribution of individuals along the first two principal components suggested some population grouping; however, considerable overlap among populations was observed, indicating relatively subtle morphological differentiation. Examination of body shape variation along the principal components revealed notable changes in several anatomical regions. Along PC1, variations were observed in the positions of the mouth, eye, operculum, pectoral, dorsal, pelvic, and anal fins, as well as in body height and the caudal peduncle. PC2 showed similar but less pronounced changes, primarily affecting eye position, head structure, fins, and the caudal peduncle. Canonical Variate Analysis (CVA) revealed significant morphological differences among the three populations, with clear separation and no overlap between Harirud Canal 1, Harirud Canal 2, and Harirud River groups. Shape changes along CV1 were mainly associated with posterior displacement of the mouth, shifts in eye and operculum positions, and fin attachment points. CV2 reflected variations primarily in mouth position, eye socket, dorsal fin insertion, and caudal peduncle landmarks. Cluster analysis corroborated these results, showing that the Harirud Canal 2 population was distinctly separated from the other two groups, indicating a higher degree of morphological divergence. In contrast, Harirud Canal 1 and Harirud River populations formed sister groups, displaying the closest morphological similarity. Discussion and conclusion Morphological variation among fish populations often reflects adaptations to diverse environmental conditions, including water flow, substrate type, vegetation cover, prey availability, and predation pressure (Mouludi-Saleh et al., 2020). In this study, significant morphological differences were observed among Alburnus hohenackeri populations in the Harirud River basin, particularly between the Harirud Canal 2 population and those from Harirud Canal 1 and the Harirud River. While PCA indicated some degree of overlap among populations, Canonical Variate Analysis (CVA) revealed clear separation, suggesting that environmental factors, geographic isolation, or a combination of both contribute to shape divergence. Cluster analysis further supported these findings, placing Harirud Canal 2 in a distinct group, whereas Harirud Canal 1 and Harirud River populations exhibited closer morphological similarity, possibly reflecting geographic proximity or shared ecological conditions. Differences in body depth, fin placement, caudal peduncle shape, and head dimensions likely represent ecological adaptations. Variations in swimming patterns, feeding behavior, hydrodynamic constraints, and predator-prey interactions may account for the observed morphological differences (Langerhans et al., 2003; Andersson et al., 2006). Previous studies on A. hohenackeri and other Cyprinid species in Iran have similarly highlighted environmental heterogeneity and geographic isolation as key drivers of morphological differentiation (Banimasani et al., 2019; Gholami and Keyvani, 2024). Given the ecological significance of A. hohenackeri and the role of morphology in survival and resource utilization, these findings provide important insights into population-level diversity and adaptation. Future studies should integrate detailed ecological measurements—such as water flow, vegetation cover, and predator-prey dynamics—with genetic analyses to elucidate the mechanisms driving morphological variation. Such information will be valuable for conservation planning and sustainable management of A. hohenackeri populations, particularly in regions facing environmental stress and biodiversity loss. Conflict of interest The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest regarding the publication of this paper. Acknowledgment The authors would like to sincerely thank the Ichthyology Museum of Isfahan University of Technology for providing access to specimens and facilities that made this research possible. 81 92 2024/09/142025/10/12025/09/92024/09/222025/06/32025/05/29 1404/3/8 2025/12/312025/12/312025/12/312025/12/312025/12/312025/12/31 1404/10/10 سرور غلامی Soroor Gholami دانشکده منابع طبیعی، دانشگاه صنعتی اصفهان، اصفهان، ایران Iran s_gholami@na.iut.ac.ir یزدان کیوانی Yazdan Keyvani دانشکده منابع طبیعی، دانشگاه صنعتی اصفهان، اصفهان، ایران Iran keivany@cc.iut Alburnus hohenackeri geometric morphometry Principal Component Analysis Canonical Variate Analysis Procrustes analysis مرواریدماهی قفقاز ریخت‌سنجی هندسی تحلیل مولفه‌های اصلی تحلیل متغیرهای کانونی واکاوی پروکراست Abbasi, K., Mouludi-Saleh, A., Eagderi, S., Bagheri, S., Sarpanah, A., & Pourgholami-Moghaddam, A. 2023. 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