Assessment of Cholinesterase inhibition activity of birds inhabiting pesticide exposed croplands and protected area in hot semi-arid region of Pakistan

Abstract Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity levels can be used as an indicator for AChE inhibition due to pesticide poisoning in bird species. We assessed the comparative brain cholinesterase level of five species inhabiting exposed croplands and Protected Area i.e. Deva Vatala National Park (DVNP), Bhimber by using a spectrophotometric method. ranged from 56.3 85.9 µmol/min/g tissue birds representing DVNP. However, 27.6 79.9 croplands. observed Jungle babbler, Common Red-vented bulbul showed significant differences (P < 0.05) at two sites. White wagtail Black drongo demonstrated non-significant > 0.05). Maximum was recorded babbler (53%) followed (35%), (18%), (15%), (7%). The under-protected ecosystems (DVNP, Bhimber) agricultural landscape suggest insecticidal contamination its impact on avifauna diversity. study also emphasizes importance pesticide-free zones protect biodiversity birds.