Physiological assessment of metal accumulation and multi-biomarker stress responses in wild and farmed Cirrhinus mrigala.

Increasing metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems threatens environmental sustainability, aquatic organisms, and public health by promoting the accumulation of toxic elements in fish tissues. This study evaluated the bioaccumulation of toxic metals and essential elements in the liver, gills, and muscles of wild and farm-reared Cirrhinus mrigala collected from the River Jhelum and local fish farms, respectively. Fish health was assessed through hematological, biochemical, and histopathological analyses. Results showed higher metal concentrations in wild fish compared with farm-reared specimens. The liver exhibited highest accumulation, followed by the gills and muscles. Among essential elements, calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) were the most abundant, whereas nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), and arsenic (As) were the predominant toxic metals. Wild fish exhibited marked hematological and biochemical alterations, while histopathological analyses revealed severe tissue damage in the gills, liver, and muscles. Human health risk assessment indicated minimal risk from farm-reared fish consumption, whereas wild fish from the River Jhelum may pose significant health concerns. Overall, the study highlights the ecological deterioration of the investigated river system and emphasizes the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies, including improved waste management practices, continuous environmental monitoring, and regular limnological assessments to safeguard aquatic ecosystems and public health.