Studies on bioaccumulation of lead and arsenic in different tissues of Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Heavy metals present in surroundings tend to accumulate into the bodies of animals vide the food chains. This bioaccumulation of toxic heavy metals cause several pathological conditions, thus, imposing serious health hazards to humans and other animals. It has become extremely important to monitor levels of heavy metals for well being of humans. The present study was carried to evaluate the extent of bioaccumulation of two heavy metals in rabbit by measuring their levels in various tissues. The rabbits were divided into control (C) and two experimental groups i.e. T1 (Lead treated) and T2 (Arsenic treated). Experimental groups were orally administered lead and arsenic at concentration of 0.02 mg/L of glucose solution for a period of 28 days. Further, the concentration of above heavy metals was determined in liver, kidney and muscle using atomic absorption spectrometry. Concentration of lead in liver and kidney, while concentration of arsenic in kidney was found to be significantly higher (P<0.05) in treatment groups as compared to the control. Higher mean concentration of lead (35.68±7.36) and arsenic (18.70±3.456) was detected in kidney in treatment groups. Lower mean concentration of lead (12.43±4.70) and arsenic (7.07±2.45) was determined in muscles in treatment groups. The lead accumulated at significantly higher rate (P<0.05) compared to arsenic in all three tissues in treatment groups. It is concluded that heavy metals tend to bioaccumulate at relatively higher concentration in tissues involved in metabolic activities i.e. kidney and liver in rabbit.