Dietary Quercetin Mitigates Aflatoxin B1-Induced Toxicity in Labeo rohita: Evidence from Physiological and Tissue Micro-Architecture Responses

Abstract

This study evaluated the protective effect of dietary quercetin (QUE) against aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) toxicity in Labeo rohita fingerlings during a 90-day feeding trial. Fish were assigned to different dietary treatments, including a control (CON), AFB₁-contaminated diets, and AFB₁ diets supplemented with QUE (200 mg kg^-1). Growth performance, biochemical parameters, antioxidant enzyme activities, and tissue micro-architecture of the liver and kidney were assessed. Results revealed that QUE supplementation significantly improved growth, enhanced biochemical and antioxidant responses, and reduced tissue damage, particularly at lower AFB₁ exposure. However, higher AFB₁ levels caused noticeable physiological disturbances and histopathological alterations. QUE was effective in alleviating oxidative stress and preserving tissue integrity in exposed fish. Overall, the study demonstrates that dietary QUE can mitigate AFB₁-induced toxicity and improve fish health, suggesting its potential as a natural feed additive for enhancing resilience against mycotoxin contamination in aquaculture systems.