Contamination Of Aquatic Ecosystems Research Articles

Comparative analysis of sediment quality indices using different reference values in an environmental protection area in Southeastern Brazil.

Contamination of aquatic ecosystems by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) is a concerning environmental issue, given their persistence, toxicity potential, and ability to accumulate in living organisms. Several studies have been conducted to assess the contamination of aquatic ecosystems by PTEs, using pollution and ecological risk indices that rely on the concentration of these elements in aquatic sediments. However, many of these studies use global reference values for calculating the indices, which can lead to misleading interpretations due to substantial variations in PTEs concentrations influenced by the geological characteristics of each region. Therefore, the use of regional reference values is more appropriate when available. This study aimed to investigate variations in the results of five indices, employing global, regional, and quality reference values, based on sediment samples collected from rivers in the Ipanema National Forest, a protected area in Brazil exposed to various anthropogenic pressures. The results revealed that elements such as Al, Fe, and Mn exceeded the limits allowed by legislation in water samples, while As and Cr surpassed the limits in sediment samples. Comparative analysis highlighted significant discrepancies in the results of the indices when global reference values were used compared to regional and quality reference values, especially for As and Ba. Thus, this study underscores the importance of establishing specific regional values for an accurate assessment of sediment quality and the risks associated with contamination by PTEs in different regions worldwide.

A Review on Unlocking Toxicity: How Zebrafish embryos Help Ensure Safe Chemicals

Aquatic ecotoxicity testing has benefited greatly from zebrafish embryo toxicity testing (ZFET) because of its high throughput, low cost, sensitivity to a variety of toxicants, and ethical issues. This study highlights the benefits of ZFET over conventional fish toxicity testing, such as its capacity to detect teratogenic defects and possible long-term impacts. The limitations of ZFET are also addressed, notably its emphasis on acute dosages and difficulties with interspecies extrapolation. In addition to the generation of in vitro alternatives utilizing zebrafish cell lines, recent developments in ZFET technology are also highlighted, including the use of transgenic zebrafish lines and high-throughput screening techniques. The paper's conclusion includes a discussion of potential prospects for ZFET research. These include improving interspecies extrapolation methods, optimizing chronic toxicity assessment procedures, and integrating ZFET with other ecotoxicity testing strategies. ZFET is a great instrument for environmental protection and a crucial component in avoiding chemical contamination of aquatic ecosystems, so long as it is acknowledged for what it is and is open to future improvement

Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of the Hepatopancreas from Macrobrachium rosenbergii Exposed to the Heavy Metal Copper.

The contamination of aquatic ecosystems by the heavy metal copper (Cu) is an important environmental issue and poses significant risks to the physiological functions of aquatic organisms. Macrobrachium rosenbergii is one of the most important freshwater-cultured prawns in the world. The hepatopancreas of crustaceans is a key organ for immune defense, heavy metal accumulation, and detoxification, playing a pivotal role in toxicological research. However, research on the molecular response of the hepatopancreas in M. rosenbergii to Cu exposure is still lacking. In this study, the transcriptomic response in the hepatopancreas of M. rosenbergii was studied after Cu exposure for 3 and 48 h. Compared with the control group, 11,164 (7288 up-regulated and 3876 down-regulated genes) and 10,937 (6630 up-regulated and 4307 down-regulated genes) differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified after 3 and 48 h exposure, respectively. Most of these DEGs were up-regulated, implying that gene expressions were largely induced by Cu. Functional enrichment analysis of these DEGs revealed that immunity, copper homeostasis, detoxification, DNA damage repair, and apoptosis were differentially regulated by Cu. Seven genes involved in immunity, detoxification, and metabolism were selected for validation by qRT-PCR, and the results confirmed the reliability of RNA-Seq. All these findings suggest that M. rosenbergii attempts to resist the toxicity of Cu by up-regulating the expression of genes related to immunity, metabolism, and detoxification. However, with the excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the antioxidant enzyme system was destroyed. As a result, DNA damage repair and the cellular stress response were inhibited, thereby exacerbating cell damage. In order to maintain the normal function of the hepatopancreas, M. rosenbergii removes damaged cells by activating the apoptosis mechanism. Our study not only facilitates an understanding of the molecular response mechanisms of M. rosenbergii underlying Cu toxicity effects but also helps us to identify potential biomarkers associated with the stress response in other crustaceans.

Grafted Tomatoes Removed More Soil Phosphorus than Nongrafted Tomatoes under High-phosphorus Conditions

Nonpoint-source phosphorus (P) from agricultural fields is a contaminant of surface waters, and high soil P fertility exacerbates this problem. Many vegetable growers and gardeners have a history of applying more P than is necessary for optimum plant growth. Avoiding unnecessary P applications is an important part of the long-term solution to reducing P loading in water. When soil P levels are very high, management practices that result in more intense P removal are recommended to reduce these levels and the potential for aquatic ecosystem contamination with P. Growers may apply soluble starter fertilizer containing P to encourage rapid transplant establishment; however, the effectiveness of this practice is unknown for soil P levels considered high or very high. Grafting tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) onto vigorous rootstocks may help the plant remove more P from the soil than nongrafted plants. This study investigated the effects of organic starter P fertilizers applied to three hybrids of nongrafted tomato and the same hybrids grafted onto ‘Estamino’ rootstock in field-grown conditions during three site-years with high preplant P fertility. The yield, fruit P concentration, and amount of P removed from the field were measured to elucidate starter P and grafting impacts on P removal. Starter P was not impactful on all responses. Grafting increased the total yield by 11.6%, fruit P concentration in a genotype-dependent manner (average of 12.6%), and net P removal from the field by 28.4% (6.0 kg P/ha). Net P removal was positively correlated with the total yield (r = 0.821) and fruit P concentration (r = 0.502), suggesting that practices to increase the yield or P concentration independently increase net P removal.

Toxicity Evaluation and Tissue Damaging Effects of Lead in Labeo Rohita

Heavy metal contamination of aquatic ecosystems due to industrialization and anthropogenic activities has become a serious global issue. Toxic effects of these heavy metals are posing a major threat to the aquatic organisms especially fish. Fishes exposed to lead (Pb), exhibit a wide-range of effects including muscular and neurological degeneration and destruction, growth inhibition, mortality, reproductive problems, and paralysis. Many fish species are used as food source by man. Bio magnification of these metals makes them hazardous for humans. Objective: To evaluate the acute toxicity (96-hr LC50 and lethal concentrations) of Pb in Labeo rohita and the effect of various sub-lethal doses of Pb on different organs (Gills, Liver, and Muscles) of fish. Methods: Live fish samples (150) were shifted from hatchery to laboratory. To measure metal (Pb), accumulation in fish body inductively coupled Plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was performed. Results: Acute toxicity (96-hr LC50) of Pb was observed as 52.20 mg/l, while Pb accumulation was noted more in gills as compared to liver and muscles. Conclusions: This study will provide baseline information for the control of aquatic pollution and conservation of aquatic organisms

Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate effects on the growth, development, and reproduction of Moina macrocopa (Crustacea: Cladocera)

Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is used as a plasticizer in plastics. The effects of DEHP on terrestrial vertebrates have been extensively reported but the effects of DEHP contamination on aquatic ecosystems have not been thoroughly studied. Since water bodies are one of the main mediums through which DEHP is released worldwide, the impacts of DEHP contamination should be manifested in water fleas. Therefore, maternal Moina macrocopa were exposed to 1, 10, 100, and 1000 μg/L concentrations of DEHP. Changes in growth and reproduction were evaluated. The findings demonstrated that DEHP exposure did not have a negative impact on growth or the ability to reproduce. An analysis of the ovary yolk body (YB) demonstrated that the average size and number of yolk bodies (YBs) produced by M. macrocopa exposed to 1000 μg/L DEHP were not significantly different to the average size and number of YBs produced in blank control and solvent control conditions. These outcomes support the cellular pathology data gathered by other researchers. Nevertheless, when M. macrocopa was exposed to 1000 μg/L DEHP for five days, a significant increase in YB numbers was observed with changes in YB morphology. The critical cellular pathology of YB showed morphological abnormalities, including rod-shaped YBs, and YB density was higher than in the blank and solvent controls. Even though these results suggest that antioxidative stress can be induced by DEHP exposure, growth, and reproduction were not significantly different among exposed water fleas compared to fleas in the blank and solvent controls. The result was attributed to the antioxidant response of the water flea. In conclusion, the present study enhances our understanding of previous findings from risk assessments of DEHP contamination in aquatic ecosystems.

Assessment of ecological and health risk impact of heavy metals contamination in stream sediments in Itapaji-Ekiti, SW Nigeria

BackgroundHeavy metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems is a major environmental and health concern globally. This study assessed the ecological and health risks associated with heavy metal pollution in stream sediments in Itapaji-Ekiti, Southwest Nigeria. The study contributes collectively to a comprehensive understanding of the geochemical dynamics and contamination factors affecting the studied stream sediments. MethodsHeavy metals study was conducted on stream sediments within the geographical confines of sheet 244, Ado map. Seventeen stream sediment samples were obtained from various sites and subjected to analysis to determine the concentrations of heavy metals such as lead (Pb), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), barium (Ba), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni) and vanadium (V) using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF). The results showed that the concentrations of these metals exceeded permissible levels at most sampling sites, indicating significant contamination of the stream sediments. The concentrations and pollution levels of the heavy metals from selected sampling sites were documented for ecological and health risk evaluations. ResultThe findings revealed that the concentrations of these metals surpassed acceptable thresholds at the majority of sampling locations, indicating significant contamination of the stream sediments. The concentrations of heavy metals, specifically Cr and Cd, exhibit moderate contamination, while Pb and Ba demonstrates a significant contamination factor with moderate to extreme degree of contamination. Several ecological risk indices were calculated to evaluate the potential ecological risks. The results revealed that the stream sediments posed considerable to very high ecological risks at most sites based on the risk quotient, contamination factor and pollution load index. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk assessments for heavy metals in stream sediments exposed potential health risks, especially for children, indicating the need for protective measures. The cumulative cancer risk, particularly for adults, raised concerns about the overall health implications of prolonged exposure to the heavy metal concentrations in the streams. ConclusionThe study also evaluated ecological and health risks, revealing potential risks from heavy metals. Hazard and cancer risk assessments suggested the increasing potential of heavy metals to pose health risks, particularly for inhabitants of the area.

Comparative transcriptome combined with physiological analyses revealed key genes and pathways for cadmium tolerance in wild-type and mutant microalgae Dunaliella salina

Cadmium (Cd) has become one of the major contaminants in aquatic ecosystems. The microalgae Dunaliella salina is known as a cadmium (Cd) accumulator and shows a high level of tolerance to Cd, but improved Cd tolerance and relevant mechanisms are still required for investigation. In this study, two mutant strains (M1 and M2) of D. salina with high Cd resistance were obtained by chemical mutagenesis. In the normal medium, there were no differences between the two mutant strains and the wild-type strain in biochemical and physiological indicators. However, the two mutant strains showed high Cd resistance, rapid growth rate, and good Cd accumulation capacity in the medium containing high levels of Cd compared with the wild strain, which may be involved in increases in protein content, accumulation of carotenoids and chlorophylls, and glutathione reductase (GR) activity. We identified 829, 587, and 740 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the Cd/Control, Cd + M1/Cd, and Cd + M2/Cd sample groups by transcriptome analysis, respectively. The main DEGs were found in the ribosome, DNA replication, photosynthesis-antenna, and photosynthesis pathways after KEGG enrichment. There were 39 DEGs involved in the photosynthesis and photosynthesis-antenna pathways, of which 28 DEGs were down-regulated by Cd in the wild-type strain but remained relatively unchanged in the mutant strains. Under Cd exposure, the mutant strains showed higher mRNA levels of most DEGs involved in the ribosome and DNA replication pathways than the wild strain. Taken together, the present study will help us understand the mechanism of Cd tolerance in microalgae, and provide candidate genes and key pathways for phytoremediation.

Change in water quality in an Amazonian microbasin: ecological and human health implications.

The decline in the quality of water resources in the Amazon is very rapid in cities suffering from unplanned urban growth. The region has two defined seasons, winter (wet) and summer (dry), which directly affect the behavior of contaminants in aquatic ecosystems. The aim of this study was to assess the ecological and human health risks associated with the use of the watershed. In addition, an ecological index was proposed: the Quality Index for Aquatic Life, for the risk of contaminants to aquatic life. Sampling was carried out at six points in the Juá watershed. Physicochemical parameters, major anions, metals and total phosphorus were analyzed at both stations between 2020 and 2021. The highest concentrations of contaminants were found in the rainy season, due to the washing away of the banks. In this sense, Cl presented a concentration more than 307 times higher than that permitted by Brazilian legislation (wet). The ecological index showed that the watershed has a high risk of metals such as Cr III and Cr VI for the biota. The human health risk analysis showed a low risk; however, the lack of basic sanitation in the city indicates that monitoring of urban water resources is necessary.

Interaction Between Endocrine Disruptors and Polyethylene Nanoplastic by Molecular Dynamics Simulations.

Nanoplastics (NPs) can come into contact with humans through different means such as ingesting contaminated food or exposure to contaminated air. Recent research indicates that these NPs can act as vectors for other contaminants. Further research is still needed to determine the effects of these interactions and whether they are significant under environmental conditions. Bisphenol A (BPA) and benzophenone (BZP) are possible contaminants that could be cotransported with NPs. Even in low concentrations, BPA and BZP can act as endocrine disruptors and have been linked to several diseases. In this study, we used molecular dynamics simulations to obtain the potential of mean force (PMF) profile between a polyethylene NP and a BPA/BZP molecule. The PMF shows a minimum of -8.0 kJ mol-1 for the BPA, whereas it is -23.5 kJ mol-1 for the BZP, meaning BZP has a much greater attractive potential to polyethylene than BPA. We can infer that the higher quantity of BPA's hydrogen bonds with the water contributes to the difference between BZP and BPA. The results indicate the need to address the possibility of NPs playing a role in the cotransport and bioaccumulation of contaminants in aquatic ecosystems.

Defect Engineering of Bi2WO6 for Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Antibiotic Pollutants.

Infiltration of excessive antibiotics into aquatic ecosystems plays a significant role in antibiotic resistance, a major global health challenge. It is therefore critical to develop effective technologies for their removal. Herein, defect-rich Bi2WO6 nanoparticles are solvothermally prepared via epitaxial growth on pristine Bi2WO6 seed nanocrystals, and the efficiency of the photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin, a common antibiotic, is found to increase markedly from 62.51% to 98.27% under visible photoirradiation for 60min. This is due to the formation of a large number of structural defects, where the synergistic interactions between grain boundaries and adjacent dislocations and oxygen vacancies lead to an improved separation and migration efficiency of photogenerated carriers and facilitate the adsorption and degradation of ciprofloxacin, as confirmed in experimental and theoretical studies. Results from this work demonstrate the unique potential of defect engineering for enhanced photocatalytic performance, a critical step in removing antibiotic contaminants in aquatic ecosystems.

The First Evidence of the Water Bioremediation Potential of Ficopomatus enigmaticus (Fauvel 1923): From Threat to Resource?

Each year, a staggering 700,000 tons of synthetic dyes are manufactured globally, leading to the release of dye-laden wastewater into aquatic systems. These synthetic dyes resist biodegradation, endangering human and environmental health. Since traditional wastewater treatments are basically unable to remove dyes, exploring the potential of alternative solutions, such as bioremediation, is crucial to reduce dye contamination in aquatic ecosystems. Ficopomatus enigmaticus (Fauvel 1923), listed as one of the 100 worst invasive species in Europe, is considered an invasive ecosystem engineer capable of causing economic and ecological losses. Despite this negative status, the literature suggests its positive contributions to aquatic ecosystems as habitat former and water bioremediator. However, existing evidence on the potential of F. enigmaticus to improve water quality is fragmented and lacks experimental data from laboratory tests. This study examined the potential of Ficopomatus reefs, both living and dead, to enhance water quality by removing contaminants, focusing on methylene blue (MB), one of the most common synthetic dyes. Bioaccumulation and bioadsorption were identified as key mechanisms for dye removal, supported by ATR-FTIR and microscopic analyses. Ficopomatus efficiently removed up to 80% of MB within 24 h. Bioaccumulation in the soft body accounted for 18% of the total removal, while complex adsorption phenomena involving carbonaceous, microalgal, and organic reef components accounted for 82%. Surprisingly, bioremediated solutions exhibited significant effects in ecotoxicological tests on bacteria, indicating the potential of F. enigmaticus to disrupt bacterial quorum sensing related to biofilm formation, and suggesting a possible antifouling action. This study underscores the intricate interplay between F. enigmaticus, water quality improvement, and potential ecological consequences, stressing the need for further investigation into its multifaceted role in aquatic ecosystems.

An integrated transcriptome-microbiome host relationship associated with paraben toxicity in the brackish water flea Diaphanosoma celebensis

Parabens, a group of alkyl esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, have been found in aquatic systems in particular, leading to concerns about their potential impact on ecosystems. This study investigated the effects of three commonly used parabens, methylparaben (MeP), ethylparaben (EtP), and propylparaben (PrP), on the brackish water flea Diaphanosoma celebensis. The results showed that PrP had the most adverse impact on survival rates, followed by EtP and MeP, while MeP and EtP induced significant adverse effects on reproductive performance. A transcriptome analysis revealed significant differential gene expression patterns in response to paraben exposure, with MeP associated with the most significant effects. MeP and EtP exposure produced greater disruption in the microbiota of D. celebensis than did PrP compared with control groups, and we identified eight key microbiota, including Ruegeria and Roseovarius. Correlation analysis between transcriptome and microbiome data revealed key interactions between specific microbiota and host gene expression. Certain microbial taxa were associated with specific genes (e.g. cuticle related genes) and toxicological pathways, shedding light on the complex molecular response and in vivo toxicity effects of parabens. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying paraben toxicity and highlight the importance of considering the ecological impact of chemical contaminants in aquatic ecosystems.

Novel Cerium (IV) Oxide -Ti3C2- titanium dioxide heterostructure photocatalyst for pharmaceutical pollutants removal: Photocatalyst characterization, process optimization and transformation pathways

Tetracycline (TC) is a widely applied antibiotic recognized for its potential negative consequences on human health and ecological balance. In this study, a novel photocatalyst, Cerium (IV) oxide -Ti3C2- titanium dioxide (CeMXT), was synthesized through sonochemical and impregnation techniques, subsequently subjected to comprehensive characterization employing diverse methods including XRD, SEM, TEM, HR-TEM, Raman, XPS, and BET. The optimization of TC degradation was pursued using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM), encompassing variables such as initial TC concentration, irradiation duration, photocatalyst dosage, and pH. The degradation efficacy was investigated through free radical trapping experiments, revealing the pivotal roles of OH and superoxide anion radicals. Remarkable degradation efficiency, reaching 94.70 %, was achieved under specific parameter conditions: 22.19 mg/L TC concentration, 104.13 min irradiation, 0.65 g/L photocatalyst dosage, and pH 4.72. This exceptional performance could be attributed to the elevated generation of oxidant species facilitated by the Z-scheme electron transfer heterojunction. Furthermore, LC-Mass analysis was employed to delineate the intermediates formed during TC photodegradation, culminating in proposing a conceivable degradation pathway. The impressive proficiency of the CeMXT photocatalyst underscores its potential application for effective large-scale treatment of persistent organic pollutants in wastewater treatment facilities. Additionally, comparative analysis with a recently developed photocatalyst highlights its promise as a viable alternative for the remediation of such contaminants in aquatic ecosystems.

Comparative analysis between mercury levels in fish tissues evaluated using direct mercury analyzer and inductively plasma-coupled mass spectrometer

Recent ecotoxicological studies have indicated mercury (Hg) contamination in aquatic ecosystems in the Amazon Basin. Although Hg contamination can be associated with small-scale gold mining, the soils of the Amazon region have naturally high Hg concentrations, and can be transported to aquatic ecosystems via deforestation and mining activities. Biomagnification of Hg can pose risks to the local human population; therefore, its concentration in fish tissues must be monitored consistently. Fast and sensitive Hg determination is required for continuously monitoring ecosystems impacted by mineral exploration. The direct mercury analyzer (DMA-80) is widely used for determining total Hg levels in tissue samples; it is fast and cost-effective, without requiring sample preparation. Here, we determined the sensitivity and specificity of Hg detection accomplished using DMA-80, and whether these results are reliable compared to those obtained using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS), which is the gold standard. We obtained 106 paired dried samples of muscle tissue from fish species occupying different trophic levels in the Lower Amazon region, and analyzed them using both equipment (DMA-80 and ICP-MS). The results obtained using DMA-80 had an overall Hg mean of 1.90 ± 0.18 mg/kg which was higher (p < 0.05) than the mean of those obtained using ICP-MS (1.55 ± 0.13 mg/kg). Linear regression analysis comparing the Hg levels obtained using both devices was within the 95% prediction interval, and a high coefficient of correlation showed agreement between the devices (r = 0.979; 0.069 to 0.986, 95% CI). Bland-Altman analysis showed that DMA-80 had a positive bias of 6.5% in relation to ICP-MS, which is more evident in samples with high Hg concentrations. DMA-80 was efficient in determining whether the Hg levels exceeded the maximum allowed levels required by the European Union, USA, and Brazil, showing a specificity and sensitivity of above 95%.

Ecological risks assessment of fishery commodities from heavy metal in The East Java Province, Indonesia

Heavy metals are a crucial group of chemicals extensively used in materials to meet human needs, eventually leading to contamination of aquatic ecosystems and accumulation in organism’s tissues. Heavy metals enter the aquatic ecosystem from various sources. Those metals that pollute aquatic waters are deposited in sediments, remain dissolved in water or accumulate in the food web of aquatic organisms. Benthic biota is believed to accumulate the highest levels of these metals, while other aquatic animals, such as fish, shrimp, and macroalgae, serve as significant sources of heavy metals intake through food and the environmental exposure. Ina study conducted in and around the east Java, Indonesia, the concentration of heavy metals in commercially important fish species, shellfish, and macroalgae were evaluated using an inductive couple plasma-mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). This study is very important because fishery resources are not only vital for exports but also serve as a primary source of essential food for local communities. The results showed that heavy metal concentration (Pb, Cd, and Hg) in samples were 12.3 mg∙dm –3, 0.171 mg∙dm –3, and undetectable, respectively. This study showed that different metals were present in the samples at different levels, all of which fell within the maximum residual levels set by the EU and USFDA. The results of an analysis of food safety based on the Hazard Index showed values below 1 point, indicating that fishery products (fish, shrimp, and macroalgae) from the East Java Province are generally safe for human consumption.

Assessment of heavy metal concentrations and bioaccumulation in the invasive round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) and associated risks to human health

The round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) is an invasive species that can be used as a raw material in the food industry and also as a bioindicator of heavy metal pollution in the environment. In this study, Cd, Co, Cr, Mo, Ni, and Pb were determined in water, bottom sediment, muscle, liver, gills, and gonads of round goby from Dąbie Lake, Szczecin Lagoon, and Puck Bay (all in southern Baltic Sea) using atomic absorption spectrometry. Fulton’s condition factor, gonadal and hepatosomatic indices (GSI, HSI) were calculated. Based on estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and carcinogenic risk (CR), we assessed the human health risk related to the consumption of heavy metals in the round goby. The fish had length and weight ranges of 15.0–16.7 cm and 55.3–80.9 g, respectively. Fulton’s condition factor ranged from 1.26 to 2.48 and was highest (p < 0.05) for fish from Dąbie Lake. The range of metal concentrations (in μg kg−1) ranged from 2.92 (Cd in muscles of fish from Szczecin Lagoon) to 106.4 (Ni in muscles of fish from Dąbie Lake). The highest concentrations of Cd, Co, Mo, and Pb were found in livers, Ni in muscles and gonads, and Cr in gills. The calculated EDIs were below the reference oral dose (RfD) and maximum for Cd (1.6% RfD) and Pb (15.1% RfD). The hazard quotient was less than 1. In conclusion, the round goby has a higher potential to accumulate metals from water than from bottom sediments. Consumption of its muscle should not pose a health risk (cancer risk can be considered acceptable). Due to Pb accumulation, moderate consumption should be recommended for pregnant women and children. Finally, our results indicate that the round goby (especially its liver) can be used as a bioindicator to monitor metal contamination of aquatic ecosystems.

Microplastic Contamination in Sediments of Xiamen Bay: Investigating Ecological Consequences

Microplastic contamination in aquatic ecosystems poses a global environmental challenge, with local variations requiring focused investigations. This study examines the prevalence, characteristics, and ecological implications of microplastics in Xiamen Bay sediments, providing insights into the potential risks for both the environment and human health. The analysis encompasses spatial and temporal distribution patterns, ecological impacts on sediment biota, and pathways of human exposure. Key considerations for human health risk assessment are identified, considering particle characteristics, exposure levels, and vulnerable populations. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing these challenges and proposes strategies for mitigating the impact of microplastic contamination in Xiamen Bay.

Oxidative stress, antioxidant defense responses, and histopathology: Biomarkers for monitoring exposure to pyrogallol in Clarias gariepinus

Pyrogallol promotes free radicals leading to oxidative stress and toxicity. There are however a lack of studies on oxidative stress and the antioxidant system of fish following exposure to pyrogallol. This study measured oxidative stress markers, antioxidant responses, and histological changes in catfish exposed to pyrogallol. Fish were divided into one of four experimental groups: control only, or 1, 5 or 10 mg/L pyrogallol. After 15 days, glutathione-S-transferase in the serum was decreased in fish exposed to either 5 or 10 mg/L pyrogallol relative to controls while superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity were decreased significantly in fish exposed to 1, 5, or 10 mg/L pyrogallol. Conversely, catalase was increased in serum of fish exposed to 1, 5, or 10 mg/L pyrogallol compared to controls. The liver of fish treated with 1, 5, or 10 mg/L pyrogallol had significantly higher levels of oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde, lipid peroxidation, hydroperoxide content, oxidised protein content, and DNA fragmentation %) that varied with concentration. Catfish exposed to either 1, 5, or 10 mg/L pyrogallol presented with notable histological alterations in the intestine, kidney, and muscles with prominent fibrosis, as intense deposition of collagen fibre was observed by Masson's trichrome staining. Overall, endpoints related to oxidative stress and antioxidant defence enzymes in fish may be early biomarkers of pyrogallol exposure and contamination in aquatic ecosystems. Additional studies should characterize oxidative stress indicators for their utility as biomarkers of effect.

Direct Z-scheme SrMoO4/g-C3N4 heterostructure with enhanced photocatalytic activity for decontamination in wastewater: UV and solar irradiation approach

The improper dumping of organic contaminants in aquatic ecosystems has stirred interest in the search for new technologies aimed at wastewater treatment, aiming to permanently reduce the concentration of these compounds in the environment. For this purpose, SrMoO4 was used to prepare direct Z-scheme SrMoO4/xg-C3N4 heterostructures with different amounts of g-C3N4 (x = 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 g) via co-precipitation route with additional hydrothermal treatment at 140 °C. The heterostructure properties were characterized by XRD, Raman spectroscopy, SEM-FEG, XPS, UV–vis/DRS, BET, PL, EPR and zeta potential. Photocatalytic activity was evaluated in methylene blue solution under natural sunlight and ultraviolet (UV). Heterostructures prepared with 0.9 g of g-C3N4 and processed for two hours in a hydrothermal system (SMOCN9-2h) exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity, degrading 90.70 % and 99.60 % under UV and sunlight, respectively. It is believed that the SMOCN9-2h heterostructure performed best due to increased specific surface area, decreased bandgap energy and reduced recombination rate of the photogenerated charge. EPR analysis and experiments with radical inhibitors demonstrated that OH● and O2–● radicals contribute to the photocatalytic process. In addition, the heterostructure exhibits excellent photostability under sunlight, losing only 5.1 % efficiency after four reuse cycles.