Uptake of Copper by Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi) in the Presence and Absence of Particulate and Humic Matter

Abstract

Neon tetras Paracheirodon innesi were exposed to various species of copper during exposures to evaluate the bioavailability of free copper (0 to 2 mg/l), copper apparently complexed to humic substances (0 to 160 mg/l), and copper adsorbed on kaolin clays (0 to 182 mg/l). The results of the experiments demonstrated that free copper is the most bioavailable form. Both humic substances and kaolin clay particulates reduced copper bioavailability to the fish. However, fish accumulated a fraction of copper complexed to humic substances and part of copper adsorbed on kaolin clays.