UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is a widely used organophosphate insecticide and has been associated with multiple toxic effects in non-target organisms. The present study investigates the sub-chronic haematotoxicity of CPF (6 mg/kg; 1/10 LD50) in Mus musculus and the ameliorative potential of Allium sativum aqueous extract (200 mg/kg). Total Erythrocyte Count (TEC) declined by 29.22% after 42 days, accompanied by a 16.85% reduction in haemoglobin percentage (Hb%). There was a marked decrease in Packed Cell Volume (PCV). Moreover, CPF treatment led to a pronounced leukocytosis, with Total Leukocyte Count (TLC) increasing by over 100% after 42 days, suggestive of systemic inflammation and immune stress. Natural recovery post-CPF exposure showed only marginal and statistically insignificant improvements in haematological parameters. However, A. sativum administration resulted in significant ameliorative effect by restoring TEC, PCV and TLC levels, while offering partial improvement in Hb% and erythrocyte indices. These findings demonstrate that sub-lethal CPF exposure might induce anaemia, macrocytic alterations and leukocytosis in mice, indicating oxidative and immunological stress. The study further highlights the protective role of A. sativum in mitigating CPF-induced haematotoxicity, attributable to its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties and supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic.