Ecological Threats Research Articles

Phytotoxic Effects of Polystyrene Microplastics on Growth Morphology, Photosynthesis, Gaseous Exchange and Oxidative Stress of Wheat Vary with Concentration and Shape

Microplastics pose a serious ecological threat to agricultural soils, as they are very persistent in nature. Microplastics can enter the soil system in different ways and present different shapes and concentrations. However, little is known about how plants react to microplastics with different concentrations and shapes. To this end, we conducted a factorial pot experiment with wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in which we mixed polystyrene (PS) in different shapes (bead, fiber and powder) with soil at concentrations of 0, 1, 3 and 5%. Although all shapes of PS significantly reduced morphological growth traits, PS in powder shape was the microplastic that reduced plant height (by 58–60%), fresh biomass (by 54–55%) and dry biomass (by 61–62%) the most, especially at the 3% and 5% concentrations compared with 0% PS. Similar negative effects were also observed for root length and fresh root weight at the 3% and 5% concentrations, regardless of shape. A concentration-dependent reduction in the leaf area index (LAI) was also observed. Interestingly, increasing the PS concentration tended to up-regulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes for all shapes, indicating potential complexity and a highly time-dependent response related to various reactive oxygen species (ROS). Importantly, PS at the 5% concentration caused a significant reduction in chlorophyll pigmentation and photosynthetic rate. For the transpiration rate, stomatal conductance and intercellular CO2 concentration, the negative effects of PS on wheat plants increased with the increase in microplastic concentration for all shapes of PS. Overall, we concluded that PS microplastics at higher concentrations are potentially more devastating to the physiological growth and biochemical attributes of wheat, as evidenced by the negative effects on photosynthetic pigments and gas exchange parameters for all shapes. We recommend further research experiments not only on translocation but also on tissue-specific retention of different sizes in crops to fully understand their impact on food safety.

Correlating Fire Incidents with Meteorological Variables in Dry Temperate Forest

Forest fires pose a significant ecological threat, particularly in the Diamer District, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, where climatic factors combined with human activities have resulted in severe fire incidents. The present study sought to investigate the correlation between the incidence of forest fires and critical meteorological elements, including temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind speed, over a period of 25 years, from 1998 to 2023. We analyzed 169 recorded fire events, collectively burning approximately 109,400 hectares of forest land. Employing sophisticated machine learning algorithms, Random Forest (RF), and Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM) revealed that temperature and relative humidity during the critical fire season, which spans May through July, are key factors influencing fire activity. Conversely, wind speed was found to have a negligible impact. The RF model demonstrated superior predictive accuracy compared to the GBM model, achieving an RMSE of 5803.69 and accounting for 49.47% of the variance in the burned area. This study presents a novel methodology for predictive fire risk modeling under climate change scenarios in the region, offering significant insights into fire management strategies. Our results underscore the necessity for real-time early warning systems and adaptive management strategies to mitigate the frequency and intensity of escalating forest fires driven by climate change.

Potential backfiring effects of Marine Protected Areas on kelp herbivory

The management and creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) is currently under great focus, with international organisations aiming to protect 30% of our oceans by 2030. The success of MPAs depends on a nuanced understanding of local ecological dynamics and threats, which can significantly influence ecosystem balance. Herbivory can be a stressor for foundation species, namely kelp forests, contributing to their decline in several regions of the globe. However, the dynamics inherent to herbivory and MPA’s implementation are still poorly understood. Here, the impact of protection status, depth, kelp species, and grazer type on herbivory (occurrence, rate, and grazer frequency) was assessed through a comprehensive experimental approach involving tethering experiments and faunal characterisation of macro-herbivores. The research was conducted in habitats off the central coast of Portugal: Peniche (PEN) and the MPA Berlengas Archipelago (MPA-BER). Our findings revealed that herbivory occurrence and rate are higher within the MPA, especially at greater depths. Instead of urchins, fish are the significant contributors to kelp consumption, showing a preference for the kelp S. polyschides. Results provide the first experimental evidence in the Atlantic region identifying fish as the dominant herbivores driving increased kelp biomass loss, a relationship potentially magnified by MPA implementation. Hence, protection status may not benefit all ecosystem components, enhancing the need for robust MPA management to balance trophic interactions and support biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

The deployment of circular industrial ecosystems – the condition of eco-efficient elimination of the consequences for the environment caused by military actions

The consequences of military actions are an unprecedented case of environmental damage in Ukraine. According to official data, more than 670,000 tonnes of waste were generated due to the damage (destruction) of buildings and structures as a result of hostilities in the territory of Ukraine, which can be considered the minimum possible amount according to the preliminary assessment. Attacks continue and lead to increased volumes of waste, burden on land use in communities and creation of ecological threat. International experience shows the possibility of obtaining ecological, social and economic benefits from the reuse of construction and demolition waste. In the context of the implementation of the European integration vector, Ukraine should focus on the effective management of such waste based on the principles of the circular economy − reuse, recycling and recovery. The fulfilment of this urgent task is possible thanks to the creation of conditions for the deployment of industrial circular ecosystems − a set of entities of various economic activity sectors and civil society that work and evolve together with the aim of creating added value based on the principles of reducing the use of primary materials, reusing materials and products, their processing and recovery, thereby extending the life cycle of goods and forming their enhanced value. The purpose of the article is to substantiate the expediency of deploying circular industrial ecosystems as a condition for eco-efficient elimination of the consequences for the environment caused by military actions. Based on the example of the eponymous project of the global company Energy Vault on gravitational energy storage using composite blocks, which are created with industrial waste and construction and demolition waste, key actions are outlined that will contribute to the emergence and development of circular industrial ecosystems in Ukraine around existing technologies. A range of problematic issues that need to be solved for the formation of institutions, routines, behaviour and culture of economic entities for the deployment of circular industrial ecosystems, in particular, with the aim of eco-efficient elimination of the consequences for the environment caused by military actions, is outlined. Recommendations have been provided on updating the legal support for the management of waste from the demolition of buildings and structures as a result of hostilities; reforming and expanding the range of tools for stimulating sustainable waste management; as well as developing interdisciplinary research.

Assessment of potential ecological risk for microplastics in freshwater ecosystems.

Microplastics (MPs) are one of the most widespread environmental pollutants, but their risk assessment to freshwater ecosystems has not been clearly investigated. Risk assessment has been constrained by the absence of MP concentration in some environment, the diverse types and shapes of MPs, and limitations of polystyrene (PS)-biased toxicity studies. This study examined exposure to MPs in rivers and lakes worldwide, including China (the Three Gorges Dam & Yangtze River (TGD & YR) and the lakes of Wuhan city (WL)), Vietnam (seven lakes of Da Nang city (7UL)), Europe (the Rhine River (RR)), Finland (Kallavesi Lake (KL)), Argentina (nine lakes in the Patagonia region (9LP)), Brazil (Guaiba Lake (GL)), and South Korea (Nakdong River (NR), Han River (HR), and Anyang Stream (AS)), and assessed the risks to aquatic ecosystems based on the toxicity information and morphology of MPs. We also examine the limitations of the traditional risk quotient (RQ)-based risk assessment method for PS-biased toxicity studies. Potential ecological risks were assessed using pollution load index (PLI) and potential ecological risk index (PERI) considering the hazard scores of MP types. RQ was approximately 10-6 to 10-4, indicating negligible risk to aquatic organisms. In contrast, the calculated PLI (> 30: extreme danger) and PERI (> 1200: extreme danger) values suggest that MPs represent serious ecological threats at all the study locations. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that MP fibers and fragments have a significant impact on the risks for freshwater systems. These MP morphologies derive from surrounding fishing and agricultural activities, and household and clothing industries. The areas surrounding these rivers and lakes are expected to become more densely populated, potentially leading to increased MP emissions and higher risks, suggesting a need to expand wastewater treatment facilities, reduce consumption of single-use plastics, and raise societal awareness of waste plastics.

Niche Expansion Has Increased the Risk of Leptocybe invasa Fisher Et LaSalle Invasions at the Global Scale.

Invasive alien species often undergo shifts in their ecological niches when they establish themselves in environments that differ from their native habitats. Leptocybe invasa Fisher et LaSalle (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), specifically, has caused huge economic losses to Eucalyptus trees in Australia. The global spread of eucalyptus cultivation has allowed L. invasa to threaten plantations beyond its native habitat. It is, therefore, urgent to implement effective control measures to mitigate the impact of this pest. The optimized MaxEnt model was used to predict the potential global distribution of L. invasa based on occurrence data and environmental variables. The centroid shift, overlap, unfilling, and expansion (COUE) framework was employed to evaluate niche dynamics during the global invasion process by comparing the ecological niches of L. invasa in both native regions and regions affected by invasions (hereafter referred to as "invaded"). The results indicated that the distribution of L. invasa is primarily influenced by temperature, precipitation, and the human influence index variables. Its ecological niche was shown to have considerably expanded from native to invaded regions. Under future climate scenarios, the potential geographical distribution of L. invasa is projected to be concentrated primarily in East Asia, Southeast Asia, Western Europe, and Southern Oceania. In the future, the potentially suitable areas for the establishment of L. invasa are expected to further expand. This study provides a unified framework for exploring the niche dynamics of invasive alien species globally. Emphasizing early warning and control in uninvaded areas is crucial for minimizing L. invasa ecological and economic threats.

Distancia de rescate: Exile and Loss of Identity in the Face of Rural Contamination

This paper explores Samantha Schweblin’s novel Distancia de rescate within the contexts of environmental literature and eco-horror. It analyses the rural Pampa setting in the novel as a focal point for examining the impacts of ecological degradation on human relationships and societal norms. The novel’s depiction of the Pampa as a Foucauldian heterotopia—a space that both mirrors and subverts idyllic rural landscapes—sets the stage for a narrative that intertwines ecological devastation with elements of horror. Central to this discussion is the novel’s portrayal of migración de almas or soul migration, analyzed as a metaphor for exile that leads to a loss of personal identity and a breakdown of family bonds. Characters such as David and Nina are examined as embodiments of this metaphorical exile that represent broader cultural fears about ecological and existential threats. The essay also examines how these figures embody abjection within the Anthropocene, reflecting fears about irreversible environmental damage. Through this lens, the essay explores how the novel critiques modernity’s dichotomy between nature and culture, and presents a more integrated view of human and environmental interdependence. This paper argues that Distancia de rescate not only critiques contemporary environmental issues but also serves as a commentary on the profound impacts of human actions on nature.

Heavy metal characteristics and ecological threat assessment in water and sediments of Eniong Creek, Niger Delta, Nigeria

Heavy metal characteristics and ecological threat assessment in water and sediments of Eniong Creek, Nigeria was studied between August 2022 and January 2023 in 3 stations. Seven heavy metals were analyzed with standard methods and compared with quality Standard. Ecological threat was assessed in water using two metal pollution indices while six sediment quality assessment indices were used to access the sediment quality. Results showed that the mean concentrations of nickel, copper, cadmium and zinc in water sample exceeded the permissible limits set by National environmental (surface and groundwater) quality regulations for aquatic life, while copper and cadmium exceeded the permissible limits set by Canadian sediment standards quality for the protection of aquatic life in sediments in all the stations. The heavy metal pollution index (HPI) values exceeded the threshold (100) across the stations, ranging between 469.53 and 686.74 while comprehensive pollution index (CPI) ranged between 1.405 and 1.854, indicating moderate contaminated water. The sediment indices indicated that cadmium and copper were the major metallic pollutants. The indices indicated the following –contamination factor: copper (moderate) and cadmium (very high), degree of contamination (very high); ecological risk: cadmium and copper (high) while lead and zinc were moderate; potential ecological risk (high); quantification of contamination: cadmium and copper (anthropogenic); geo-accumulation index: cadmium (very highly polluted). The study revealed that the water body and sediments were polluted, attributed to anthropogenic activities.Keywords: Eniong Creek; Heavy Metals, Nigeria; Sediment; Water

Invasion of freshwater systems by the Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896 – new insights from Italian regions

The Atlantic blue crab, Callinectes sapidus Rathbun 1896, is a highly invasive species in the Mediterranean Sea, posing significant ecological and socio-economic threats in marine and estuarine environments. This study investigates the occurrence and potential impacts of C. sapidus in Italian inland waters, specifically examining specimens collected from an irrigation canal in Pomposa on the Adriatic coast and from the Ombrone River, flowing into the Tyrrhenian Sea. Morphometric analysis revealed that males from Pomposa had a mean carapace width (CW) of 172.15 mm (±23.77 mm) and a mean weight of 282.10 g (±98.34 g), while females had a mean CW of 160.68 mm (±25.76 mm) and a mean weight of 173.26 g (±56.11 g). In contrast, males from the Ombrone River were significantly smaller, with a mean CW of 73.36 mm (±10.11 mm) and a mean weight of 25.33 g (±8.86 g). The sex ratio in Pomposa was heavily skewed towards males (3.26:1), suggesting a dominance of adult males in this freshwater habitat. A similar trend was observed in the Ombrone River, though based on a smaller sample size, with only 1 female among 10 specimens. The condition factor (K) was significantly higher for females (1.960) than for males (0.116), while growth coefficient (b) for males had a higher value (2.401) than that of females (1.788), indicating differing growth patterns. This study provides new ecological and biological data on C. sapidus in freshwater systems, underscoring the need for targeted monitoring and management to mitigate the spread and impact of this invasive species in Italian inland waters.

Ecological risk and chemical speciation of heavy metals in surface sediments of the Pearl River Estuary for comprehensive assessment

The Pearl River Estuary, a vital ecological and economic zone in Southern China, has been heavily impacted by industrial discharges, leading to significant heavy metal contamination. To address the ecological implications of different chemical forms of heavy metals, this study systematically evaluated the total concentrations and chemical speciation of Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb in surface sediments (0–2 cm) collected from 17 sites. Chemical speciation was determined using a modified BCR sequential extraction procedure, and pollution and ecological risks were assessed via the geo-accumulation index (Igeo), potential ecological risk index (RI), and risk assessment code (RAC). The results showed that all four metals exceeded background values, with Cd presenting the highest enrichment (39 times) and contributing 97% of the ecological risk. Speciation analysis revealed that Cd predominantly exists in bioavailable forms, posing severe ecological threats. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted remediation strategies to mitigate Cd contamination and its ecological impact on the estuary.

Chronic carbendazim exposure disrupts behavioral responses and redox-regulatory mechanisms in non-target detritivore Nauphoeta cinerea nymphs.

Carbendazim is widely applied in agriculture to control various fungal diseases during pre-harvest and post-harvest processes owing to its efficacy and cost-effectiveness. However, environmental and food contamination by carbendazim has become a global health issue. Indeed, the declining biodiversity of beneficial insects owing to agricultural intensification is currently of keen concern to the scientific community. The toxicological responses of Nauphoeta cinerea nymphs, a non-target insect, to ecologically realistic concentrations of carbendazim at 0, 0.25, 2.5, 5.0 and 25 μg/L for 50 uninterrupted days were assessed. Neurobehavioral data generated by video-tracking software revealed that chronic nymphal exposure to carbendazim significantly diminished the path efficiency, body rotation, maximum speed, turn angle and distance traveled but increased the immobility time, total time of freezing and episodes of freezing in insects. The deterioration in the locomotor and exploratory abilities of carbendazim-exposed insects was substantiated by high heat map intensity and reduced track plots. Further, chronic carbendazim exposure diminished acetylcholinesterase activity in head of the insects. Chronic carbendazim exposure significantly decreased antioxidant defense mechanisms but increased nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation levels in fat body, midgut and head of exposed insects. Activities of acid and alkaline phosphatases which play important roles in detoxification and metabolic processes were also markedly decreased in carbendazim-exposed insects when compared with control. Altogether, carbendazim represents an ecological threat to non-target insects through induction of oxido-inflammatory injury, providing valuable insights into the behavioral dysfunction and toxicological mechanisms of carbendazim in beneficial insects.

Identification and Invasive Potential of Opuntia humifusa Complex in China: Insights from Morphology, Plastid Genomics, and Niche Modeling

BackgroundThe genus Opuntia contains a handful of widespread invasive species, posing significant ecological threats worldwide. In China, the first records of two populations from the O. humifusa complex have become invasive and continue to expand recently. The expansion of these populations and the complexities of accurately identifying them within the complex highlight the urgent need for comprehensive study. Accurate species identification, early detection, and potential distribution modeling are considered as crucial and cost-effective measures to prevent plant invasions, significantly reducing the resources required for formulating effective management strategies. Here, we employ phylogeny, plastid genomics, and MaxEnt modeling to address the species identification and spread potential to enhance our understanding of the ecological implications of these new invasive populations and O. humifusa complex in China. ResultsMorphological and molecular analyses indicate that both populations are identified as O. humifusa within the complex. ArcGIS and the MaxEnt model predict potential invasion areas of O. humifusa complex within central and eastern China, with climatic change scenarios suggesting an overall increase in suitable habitats. Key environmental factors include precipitation of driest quarter, max temperature of warmest month, and solar radiation, collectively shaping the complex’s potential distribution. ConclusionThis study enhances our understanding of the O. humifusa complex's ecological and invasive dynamics in China, offering invaluable insights for ecological management and biodiversity preservation. Through comprehensive research, we provide a basis for proactive measures against the complex's expansion.

First evidence of microplastic ingestion by the European grayling, Thymallus thymallus, in sub-Arctic regions: Insights on plastic pollution and preliminary risk assessment in the Teno River (Finland)

Marine litter pollution affects even remote environments such as the Arctic regions and their biodiversity. However, due to the inaccessibility and difficulty of regular observations in these environments, further studies are needed to fill the knowledge gaps. In this regard, the present investigation provides new insights on microplastic contamination levels in Arctic riverfish by analyzing, for the first time, plastic ingestion by the European grayling Thymallus thymallus from the Teno River (northern Finland), an important fishery resource and vulnerable species; and performing a preliminary ecological risk assessment of microplastics in the Finnish river using the European grayling. Plastic abundance and characterization were explored, and microplastic concentrations and polymer hazardous were also used to assess human and environmental risk. The higher frequency of occurrence (%O = 50) observed in the riverfish and the characterization of the extracted plastic confirm that riverine environment is one of the main pathways for microplastic pollution in Arctic regions and suggest the influence of the surrounding environment and human activities, mainly recreational fishing. Finally, the preliminary risk assessment highlights an ecological threat to the Teno River. This research represents a first step for the study of a commercially important Arctic freshwater species as well as in remote Arctic rivers and support identification of priorities, the application of management strategies and further environmental and human-health risk assessments according to the recommendation of Arctic Monitoring Plan and Monitoring Guidelines.

Country risk mapping in a changing world—comparative survey on academic research and industrial practices

AbstractIn an era marked by rapid geopolitical shifts, persistent pandemics, and escalating climate threats, the imperative to transcend traditional country risk mapping methodologies has never been more critical. This study embarks on a comprehensive examination of the efficiency of current academic and industrial approaches to mapping the multifaceted country risks. By proposing a structured risk mapping framework that incorporates seven pivotal risk categories as Political Risk, Institutional Risk, War and Armed Conflict Risk, Public Security Risk, Socioeconomic Risk, Ecological Threat Risk, and Infrastructure Risk, the research seeks to foster a more nuanced understanding of how different organizations assess and prioritize these risk factors. Employing a dual approach that includes a thorough literature review and an extensive industry survey, and a detailed analysis of each of the seven risk category by juxtaposing relevant academic insights with industry practices, this study examines the discrepancies between academic theories and practical applications in country risk mapping. It reveals underestimate country risk factors, inadequate risk categorization granularity, inconsistencies in risk prioritization, terminological mismatches, and a need for a more integrated and holistic approach to country risk mapping. The paper concludes by proposing future research directions that aim to refine country risk mapping methodologies. It advocates a forward-looking perspective that adequately addresses the complexity and inter-connectivity of global operational risks.

Assessing the potential spread of Zaprionus tuberculatus (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in the Americas: insights for proactive management and agricultural protection.

Invasive species pose significant ecological and economic threats globally. Zaprionus tuberculatus Malloch, a drosophilid fruit fly native to the Afrotropical region and Indian Ocean islands, is included in the pest list of the Center for Agriculture and Bioscience (CABI) because it uses fruit as breeding sites and can damage cultivated areas. This fly species extended its range across Europe in the late 20th century; in 2020, it was recorded in South America, and currently, it is widely distributed in Brazil. Here, we assess the potential spreading of Zaprionus tuberculatus in Central and North America based on 2 distinct origins of propagules: from South America and from Europe. To this end, we developed species distribution models using bioclimatic variables and elevation data to project potentially suitable habitats and infer invasion routes. In any case, our results indicate suitability for Z. tuberculatus colonization in Central and North America, including major fruit-producing areas in Central American countries and the United States (Florida and California). The rapid dispersal ability of Z. tuberculatus, coupled with its adaptability to diverse environments, underscores the urgency for proactive monitoring and control measures. Therefore, this study provides valuable insights for developing proactive measures to mitigate the spread of Z. tuberculatus and protect agricultural productivity in the Americas.

Microplastic migration from landfill-mined soil through earth filling operations and ecological risk assessment: a case study in New Delhi, India.

Microplastics (MPs), plastic pieces smaller than 5 mm, are emerging as a critical ecological threat, potentially disrupting ecosystems and complicating waste management practices. Landfill-Mined Soil-Like Material (LMSLM), a byproduct of landfill reclamation, is gaining global traction for rehabilitating degraded land and repurposing it for geotechnical applications. While studies have examined contaminants like heavy metals and salts, MPs contamination has been largely overlooked, raising environmental concerns. The widespread use of LMSLM in earth-filling increases the risk of MP pollution. Additionally, significant gaps remain in understanding how MPs are distributed across different size fractions during sieving, which is critical for developing effective remediation strategies and informing future policies. This study aims to fill the existing knowledge gap by investigating the presence of microplastics in LMSLM collected from three aged waste dumpsites in New Delhi, India, and evaluating the ecological risks associated with its reuse. The results revealed the presence of MPs in all LMSLM samples with concentrations ranging from 25950 to 41110 items/kg. Fibers and fragments were the dominant shapes, with 60 % of particles measuring less than 425 µm. The color characteristics revealed the dominance of white, transparent, and black color. Polyethylene and polypropylene were the most common polymers, with smaller amounts of polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. SEM-EDX analysis revealed weathering effects and the presence of heavy metals, including Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), and Arsenic (As), adsorbed on the MP surface. Ecological risk assessment using the Polymer Hazard Index and Pollution Load Index identified hazard levels of V and II, respectively, while the Potential Ecological Risk Index indicated a medium risk. Furthermore, the dimensional analysis demonstrates that MP width, particularly in fiber-shaped MPs, plays a crucial role in determining retention and migration during sieving, while MPs with uniform shapes, like spheres and fragments, exhibit limited movement. These findings underscore the need for protective measures when using LMSLM in geotechnical applications to prevent MP migration and contamination of surrounding environments. The study highlights the importance of further research on MP contamination in reclaimed landfill materials and its implications for sustainable land use and waste management.

Bioremediation of hexavalent chromium using Beauveria bassiana SSR5: adsorption mechanisms, kinetics, and characterization

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) poses a significant ecological threat due to environmental pollution. The urgent need for an economically viable solution to remove Cr(VI) and restore ecological balance is evident. This study explores the adsorption isotherms of Cr(VI) uptake by newly isolated B. bassiana SSR5 dead fungal biomass. The batch uptake experiments, conducted under controlled pH and temperature conditions, reveal that dead fungal biomass from B. bassiana has an outstanding ability to adsorb Cr(VI). The optimal adsorption occurs at pH levels of 1 and ≤1.5, achieving a maximum capacity of 113.2 mg per gram of dry weight at an initial concentration of 300 mg/L. The adsorption capacity is strongly influenced by the solution pH, with peak values noted at pH 1.0. Conversely, temperature variations show minimal impact on the uptake capacity. All adsorption isotherms exhibit a strong correlation with the standard Langmuir equation, indicating a monolayer adsorption mechanism. The kinetic profile illustrates a rapid uptake process, achieving equilibrium within 30 min, suggesting the involvement of chemisorption. The process primarily involves ion exchange and electrostatic interactions between positively charged sites on the fungal biomass and negatively charged Cr(VI) ions at lower pH levels, facilitating the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) and enhancing adsorption. This study underscores the potential of B. bassiana dead fungal biomass as an effective biosorbent for Cr(VI) removal from wastewater and tannery effluent. The intriguing mechanism and the pH effect on the conversion of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) ions by the fungal cell wall warrant further exploration.

The Ecological Effect of Ship Canals on Wetlands

Ship canals, which play a crucial role in facilitating transport, exert significant and long-term impacts on wetland ecosystems. For social and economic development, numerous countries have put forward plans for ship canals. This paper reviews the literature on the ecological effect of ship canals on wetland ecosystems, identifies research gaps, and suggests future research directions. Ship canals typically involve high construction intensity, usually including river regulation, ship locks, and water diversion for navigation. The ecological effects of ship canals on wetlands refer to changing wetland hydrological processes, degrading water quality, eliminating wetland botany, disturbing wetland animals, and increasing ecological threats. The cumulative impact can either alter the trend of ecological succession or degrade biodiversity. Thus, there is a need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms by which canals affect wetland ecosystems, enhance the practices for wetland protection associated with canals, and develop a robust evaluation system for green canal projects.

Functionalized Cyclodextrin/Carboxymethyl Cellulose Composite Hydrogel with Double Network Structure for Adsorption of Heavy Metal Ions in Wastewater.

Heavy metal ions in industrial wastewater pose significant environmental and ecological threats. In this work, a hydrogel featuring a double network structure was synthesized via radical polymerization and cross-linking of β-cyclodextrin (CD) and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) with acrylic acid (AA). The hydrogel's functional groups and microstructure were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Mechanical properties were evaluated through rheological and compression tests. The study examined the impact of initial metal ion concentration, adsorbent-ion contact time, and solution pH on adsorption capacity. The maximum adsorption capacities of the functionalized CD/CMC-PAA-MBA hydrogel for Cu2+, Pb2+, and Cd2+ ions were 158.12, 393.56, and 290.12 mg/g, respectively. Notably, the hydrogel exhibited the highest selectivity for Pb2+ in mixed solutions. The adsorption kinetics of the metal ions were modeled using the pseudo-second-order rate equation and the Langmuir adsorption isotherm.

Sustainable Ecosystem Management Strategies for Tackling the Invasion of Blackchin Tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron) in Thailand: Guidelines and Considerations.

The invasion of blackchin tilapia in Thailand is a critical ecological threat affecting native biodiversity and destabilizing ecosystems. It is also resulting in significant ecological and socio-economic impacts. Originally from West Africa and introduced globally for aquaculture, blackchin tilapia thrive in Thailand's brackish and freshwater ecosystems because of their high reproductive rates, environmental adaptability, and trophic plasticity. This review evaluates potential solutions for the invasion of blackchin tilapia in Thailand from a scientific perspective. The successful invasion of blackchin tilapia in Thailand can be attributed to several key factors, including late detection of the species, the delayed government response, the absence of effective management strategies, and the species' high invasive potential. Given its wide distribution, large population size, and high reproductive rate, the eradication of the entire blackchin tilapia population is unlikely. Management efforts should focus on containment and impact reduction. Early detection and monitoring at the invasion front remain crucial to limit the species' spread. Developing an online platform for tracking invasive species would aid these efforts. Public education and outreach are essential for promoting responsible behaviors for preventing further spread. Encouraging the utilization of blackchin tilapia as a food source and for commercial purposes could help suppress its population while supporting local economies. Biological control and other potentially harmful strategies should be avoided unless supported by strong scientific evidence to ensure minimal risks to ecosystems. Scientific research into controlling blackchin tilapia should be encouraged to develop suitable strategies, including using sterile triploid tilapia. The "polluter pays" policy should be implemented to cover the costs associated with invasive species. Coordinated efforts between researchers, policymakers, and the public are crucial for formulating effective management strategies to promote a balance between economic benefits and long-term environmental sustainability.