ABSTRACT:

This study evaluated the sub-chronic toxicity of a commercial pesticide admixture containing cypermethrin, dichlorvos, and permethrin on reproductive and haematological parameters in male albino rats. Twenty rats were randomized into four groups (n = 5 per group). Group A served as the control and received distilled water, while Groups B, C, and D received 1 ml/L, 1 ml/2 L, and 1 ml/3 Lof the pesticide mixture in drinking water, respectively, for 28 days. Reproductive endpoints (sperm motility and count, organ weights) and haematological indices were assessed post-exposure. Sperm motility was significantly reduced in the high-dose group B (1 ml/L), though sperm count remained unaffected across all groups. A significant dose-dependent decrease in the relative weights of testes and epididymis was observed in all treated groups. Additionally, spleen weight was significantly reduced in group B. Haematological analysis revealed a significant decrease in red blood cell count in group C and a dose-dependent increase in mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), particularly in groups C and D. Elevated eosinophil and basophil counts in all treated groups. In conclusion, repeated exposure to this pesticide combination adversely affected male reproductive health and induced notable haematological alterations, even at moderate doses. Thus underscoring the need for stricter regulation and comprehensive safety evaluations of commercially available pesticide mixtures.