African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 3 (6), pp. 346-348, June 2004
ISSN 1684–5315 © 2004 Academic Journals

Full Length Research Paper

Haematological changes associated with crude oil ingestion in experimental rabbits

S.S. Ovuru* and I.K.E. Ekweozor

Department of Animal Science, Rivers State University of Science and Technology, P.M.B. 5080, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author. E-mail: ovurus@yahoo.co.uk.

Accepted 30 December 2003

Blood cell profile among experimental rabbits associated with crude oil ingestion were evaluated and was significantly (P<0.05) altered. Erythrocytes decreased linearly (P<0.05) indicating an anemic condition. The decrease also affected dependable factors such as packed cell volume (PVC) and haemoglobin (Hb).  Leukocyctes, the main defense cells of the animal decreased linearly (P<0.05) further indicating susceptibility of the animal to stress and infection. Granulolytic leukocytes, which include neutrophils and eosinophils increased linearly (P<0.05). This increase is a physiological response to stress. Lymphocytes, antibody forming leukocytes decreased linearly, indicating a response to stress and susceptibility of the animal to infection. Crude oil fraction present in the diet has serious consequences on hematological parameters in animals.

Keywords: Haematological changes, crude oil ingestion, experimental rabbits.