Hypoxia reduced upper thermal limits causing cellular and nuclear abnormalities of erythrocytes in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

Global warming is a threat across the world that leads to estimates of the upper thermal limits of ectothermic species. Increased water temperature up-regulates oxygen consumption and metabolic rates, and alters the physiological processes. In this study, we identified the critical thermal maxima (CTmax) and physiological responses under normoxia and hypoxia in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. CTmax was 41.25 °C under hypoxia and 44.50 °C under normoxia. Compared to normoxia, lower values of hemoglobin (Hb) and red blood cells (RBCs) were observed at the CTmax under hypoxia. In contrast, higher values of white blood cells (WBCs) and blood glucose (Glu) levels were observed at the CTmax under hypoxia. Consequently, higher frequencies of micronucleus, cellular and nuclear abnormalities of erythrocytes were observed at the CTmax under hypoxia. These results suggest that high temperature tolerance and subsequent physiology are significantly affected by the oxygen supply in Nile tilapia. As climate vulnerability is intensifying day by day, this data will be helpful in successful management practice for the aquatic environment having low oxygen content. [Display omitted] •The critical thermal maxima (CTmax) and physiological responses under normoxia and hypoxia were identified in the Nile tilapia.•CTmax was lowered under hypoxia.•Lowered Hb and RBC but higher WBC and blood glucose level were noticed at the CTmax in hypoxia.•Higher frequencies of micronucleus, cellular and nuclear abnormalities of erythrocytes were observed at the CTmax in hypoxia.