Abstract
A total of 240 matured Male Clarias gariepinus were caught from different fishing points of Ureje river as it flows through Ado Ekiti metropolis (waterworks, Ajebamidele, Emirin, Erinfun and Aduloju fishing locations) and an Earthen Pond. Blood samples were collected from fish samples farmed from different fishing point, and thereafter were slaughtered, organ characteristics and histology assessed. The live weight of fish from earthen pond was significantly (p<0.05) higher than that of Aduloju, with the least value obtained in those from Emirin and Erinfun. The weight of liver of fish from Aduloju is significantly (0.05) higher, while Albumin of catfish from Erinfun has a significantly (p<0.05) higher value compared to other fishing points, with lowest in Earthen Pond. Alkaline phosphatase of male catfish from Water Works, Emirin, and Aduloju were significantly (p<0.05) higher than other fishing points. Lipid peroxidation was significantly (p<0.05) higher in Erinfun and Earthen Pond. While Glutathione Peroxidase and Catalase of male catfish from Erinfun and Earthen Pond had significantly higher values than those from other fishing points. Tissue analysis reveals varying degrees of pathology of the liver, heart gill and kidney of fish from the different fishing points, demonstrate the river’s poor health, especially in Erinfun and Emirin.