Abstract
Investigation of toxicity of mustard compounds to aquatic organisms has been limited although their effects on terrestrial mammal species have been well studied. In this study, the 48-h LC 50 values of nitrogen mustard (HN 2) are reported for two aquatic invertebrate species ( Daphnia magna and Ceriodaphnia dubia) and for one fish species ( Pimephales promelas). Mean LC 50 values to C. dubia, D. magna, and P. promela were 1.12, 2.52, and 98.86 mg/L, respectively. C. dubia was the species most sensitive to HN 2. Seven-day lethal and sublethal tests with P. promelas and C. dubia were also conducted. In chronic tests, fathead minnow growth was significantly reduced by 2.50 mg/L HN 2, while C. dubia reproduction was significantly affected by 7.81 μg/L HN 2. These adverse effects on aquatic organisms caused by lower-level concentrations of HN 2 indicate that a possible aquatic ecosystem disaster could occur either after a chemical spill or during chemical warfare.
Published Version
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