A seasonal study of the haematology of wild freshwater fish

Various haematological values of wild yellowfish (Barbus holubi), carp (Cyprinus carpio) and two species of mudfish (Labeo umbratus and Labeo capensis) were examined on a seasonal basis from May 1975-April 1976, obtained from three different localities. Haematological values of fish of different length groups (from all four species) were studied at one locality during winter only. (June 1976-August 1976). Seasonal variations were observed in all of the parameters studied but no sexual differences were found and no significant changes in the haematology could be related to breeding season. Wide individual variations were evident in fish of different length groups and no correlation existed between fish length (and mass) and haematological values.