Saffron aqueous extract effects on paraquat and glyphosate concentration in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) tissues

Abstract

Herbicides such as paraquat (PQ) and glyphosate (GLY) pose ecological and public health risks because of their persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity to aquatic organisms. This study evaluated whether aqueous saffron extract (Crocus sativus L.) can reduce PQ and GLY accumulation in common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Ninety six fish were assigned to eight groups and exposed for 21 days to PQ, GLY, saffron extract, or their combinations. Residues in gill, intestine, and liver were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. PQ and GLY accumulated in a tissue and time-dependent manner, with the highest levels in liver, followed by gill and intestine. By Day 21, PQ increased by 19%, 78%, and 88%, while GLY increased by 14%, 22%, and 46%inthese tissues, respectively. Co-treatment significantly lowered herbicide residues, suggesting protective effects likely related to antioxidant and/or chelating saffron properties. These findings support saffron bioactive as potential natural mitigators of herbicide toxicity in aquaculture overall.