Gonadosomatic index and gonad histopathology of Gobius niger (Gobiidea, Teleost) from Bizerta lagoon (Tunisia): Evidence of reproduction disturbance

To evaluate the effect of anthropogenic pollution on fish reproduction in Bizerta lagoon, one of the largest Tunisian lagoons subjected to various anthropogenic and industrial pressures, the gonadosomatic index (GSI) and gonad histology of mature black goby (Gobius niger) were studied. Fish were collected during the breeding seasons from six stations differently impacted and in one reference station located at the seaward entrance of Ghar el Melh (GH) lagoon. In both sexes, we detected the presence of an overall weaker GSI in Bizerta lagoon than in control fish. These GSI alterations were accompanied by histopathological changes. In females, no significant differences in oocyte size were found across all the sample sites. However, a higher incidence of oocyte lesions (atretic oocytes, cytoplasmic retraction and karyoplasmic cluping) was found in stations located near agricultural activity zones. Histological observation of the testes revealed, as well, abnormalities in Bizerta lagoon fish: germ cells syncytium, vacuolated germ cells, melano-macrophage center and increase of gaps in the interstitium between lobules were detected with a high prevalence in stations influenced by industrial and/or urban activities. In addition, association between gonad fish histopathology and the presence of organic pollutants (DTT, PAHs and organotins) in sediment was noted. These results suggest that the chemical pollution in this lagoon may have adversely affected the gonad development of fish. In conclusion, this study is the first histological evidence of reproduction disturbance related to pollution pressure in a fish species inhabiting Bizerta lagoon. The high levels of gonad histopathology recorded raise concerns about the long-term health of fish populations in this lagoon.