Effect of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) on Ecology, Behaviour, and Habitat Selection in Channa punctatus (Bloch, 1793)

Roushni Parween, Dr. Dharmshila Kumari

Abstract: Diammonium phosphate (DAP), a widely used nitrogen?phosphorus fertilizer, enhances agricultural productivity but also poses serious ecological risks when leached into freshwater ecosystems. Water, being one of the most essential natural resources, is highly susceptible to such contamination. In the present study, the effects of DAP on water quality, behavioural responses, and habitat selection of the freshwater fish Channa punctatus (Bloch) were evaluated. Prior to experimentation, all fish were acclimatized for 15 days under laboratory conditions to minimize stress and ensure uniform physiological stability. Fish were then exposed for 96 hours to four DAP concentrations: Control (0 g/L), Low dose (0.4 g/L), Moderate dose (0.8 g/L), and High dose (2.0 g/L) in separate 20 L aquaria. The LC?? value for DAP was estimated at 4 g/L. Water quality analysis revealed a dose-dependent decrease in dissolved oxygen and pH, along with an increase in salinity. Behavioural alterations such as erratic swimming, surfacing, restlessness, loss of equilibrium, and excessive mucus secretion were most pronounced in the high-dose group. Fish also exhibited habitat avoidance behaviour, preferring less contaminated zones. These results demonstrate that short-term DAP exposure causes marked deterioration in water quality and induces behavioural and ecological disturbances in Channa punctatus, indicating the potential ecological hazards of fertilizer runoff in freshwater ecosystems. At the same time, the findings contribute to developing strategies for effective management and conservation of the environment.

Keywords: Toxicity, DAP, Channa punctatus, behavioural changes, freshwater ecology

How to Cite?: Roushni Parween, Dr. Dharmshila Kumari, "Effect of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) on Ecology, Behaviour, and Habitat Selection in Channa punctatus (Bloch, 1793)", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 419-422, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251203221000, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251203221000