An evaluation of the effects of the anabolic steroid, methandrostenolone, on growth and gross pathology in channel catfish

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the anabolic steroid, methandrostenolone, on growth and gross pathology of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus Rafinesque). Effects on growth were determined by analysis of changes in total weight gain, percent crude protein, and moisture content of the flesh. Pathological effects were determined by gross morphological observation, liver to body weight ratios, and microscopic examination of the livers of treated and untreated fish.

Statistical analysis of the data collected revealed no significant difference (.05 level) of treated and untreated fish with respect to total weight gain, percent crude protein, and moisture content of the flesh. No differences were observed in gross morphology, liver to body weight ratios (at .05 level), or microscopic examination of liver sections. However, after approximately three to four weeks in a distilled water bath, the hematoxylin/eosin stain had cleared from only the sections of the livers from the catfish receiving the steroid.

It was concluded that the anabolic steroid, methandrostenolone, was not effective in promoting growth in channel catfish at the 2.5 mg of methandrostenolone/kg of body weight/day dosage level.