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beruecksichtige naturwissenschaftliche Journale:
Ecotoxicology
Ecotoxicology - published by
Springer -
... is an international journal devoted to the publication of fundamental research on the effects of toxic chemicals on populations, communities and terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems.
Environmental Toxicology - published by
Wiley-Interscience -
The journal publishes in the areas of toxicity and toxicology of environmental pollutants in air, dust, sediment, soil and water, and natural toxins in the environment.
Aktuelle wissenschaftliche Fachartikel der
genannten Journale:
Sequestration by metallothioneins and antioxidant defense are two kinds of important defense mechanisms employed by mollusks
to minimize adverse effects caused by heavy metal contaminants in marine environment. In the present study, a novel metallothionein
gene, CgMT-III, was cloned from Crassostrea gigas, consisting of eighteen conserved cysteine residues and encoding a MT III-like protein with two tandem β domains. The expression
level of CgMT-III transcript induced by zinc was much higher than that induced by cadmium exposure. It suggested that CgMT-III
was perhaps mainly involved in homeostatic control of zinc metabolism, which was distinct from previously identified MTs in
C. gigas. Among the tested antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx),
SOD and GPx showed varying up-regulations in a tissue-specific manner, while CAT activities were inhibited in both gill and
hepatopancreas from C. gigas exposed to heavy metals. It can be inferred that CgMT-III was mainly involved in zinc homeostasis, and CgMT-III gene together
with CAT enzyme could be potential biomarkers to indicate heavy metal, especially zinc pollution in marine organisms.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-9
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0926-z
Authors
Ming Cong, Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai, 264003 Shandong, People’s Republic of China
Huifeng Wu, Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai, 264003 Shandong, People’s Republic of China
Xiaoli Liu, Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai, 264003 Shandong, People’s Republic of China
Jianmin Zhao, Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai, 264003 Shandong, People’s Republic of China
Xuan Wang, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100 Shandong, People’s Republic of China
Jiasen Lv, Ocean School of Yantai University, Yantai, 264005 Shandong, People’s Republic of China
Lin Hou, Ocean School of Yantai University, Yantai, 264005 Shandong, People’s Republic of China
Bumble bees are important pollinators whose populations have declined over recent years, raising widespread concern. One conspicuous
threat to bumble bees is their unintended exposure to trace residues of systemic neonicotinoid pesticides, such as imidacloprid,
which are ingested when bees forage on the nectar and pollen of treated crops. However, the demographic consequences for bumble
bees of exposure to dietary neonicotinoids have yet to be fully established. To determine whether environmentally realistic
levels of imidacloprid are capable of making a demographic impact on bumble bees, we exposed queenless microcolonies of worker
bumble bees, Bombus terrestris, to a range of dosages of dietary imidacloprid between zero and 125 μg L−1 and examined the effects on ovary development and fecundity. Microcolonies showed a dose-dependent decline in fecundity,
with environmentally realistic dosages in the range of 1 μg L−1 capable of reducing brood production by one third. In contrast, ovary development was unimpaired by dietary imidacloprid
except at the highest dosage. Imidacloprid reduced feeding on both syrup and pollen but, after controlling statistically for
dosage, microcolonies that consumed more syrup and pollen produced more brood. We therefore speculate that the detrimental
effects of imidacloprid on fecundity emerge principally from nutrient limitation imposed by the failure of individuals to
feed. Our findings raise concern about the impact of neonicotinoids on wild bumble bee populations. However, we recognize
that to fully evaluate impacts on wild colonies it will be necessary to establish the effect of dietary neonicotinoids on
the fecundity of bumble bee queens.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-9
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0927-y
Authors
Ian Laycock, Department of Biosciences, College of Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Hatherly Laboratories, Prince of Wales Road, Exeter, EX4 4PS UK
Kate M. Lenthall, Department of Biosciences, College of Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Hatherly Laboratories, Prince of Wales Road, Exeter, EX4 4PS UK
Andrew T. Barratt, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Harrison Building, North Park Road, Exeter, EX4 4QF UK
James E. Cresswell, Department of Biosciences, College of Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Hatherly Laboratories, Prince of Wales Road, Exeter, EX4 4PS UK
The existence of genetic variability is a key element of the adaptive potential of a natural population to stress. In this
study we estimated the additive and non-additive components of the genetic variability of net reproductive rate (R0) in a natural Daphnia magna population exposed to Cd stress at two different temperatures. To this end, life-table experiments were conducted with 20
parental and 39 offspring clonal lineages following a 2 × 2 design with Cd concentration (control vs. 3.7 μg Cd/L) and temperature
(20 vs. 24 °C) as factors. Offspring lineages were obtained through inter-clonal crossing of the different parental lineages.
The population mean, additive and non-additive genetic components of variation in each treatment were estimated by fitting
an Animal Model to the observed R0 values using restricted maximum likelihood estimation. From those estimates broad-sense heritabilities (H2), narrow-sense heritabilities (h2), total (CVG) and additive genetic coefficients of variation (CVA) of R0 were calculated. The exposure to Cd imposed a considerable level of stress to the population, as shown by the fact that the
population mean of R0 exposed to Cd was significantly lower than in the control at the corresponding temperature, i.e. by 23 % at 20 °C and by
88 % at 24 °C. The latter difference indicates that increasing temperature increased the stress level imposed by Cd. The H²
and CVG were significantly greater than 0 in all treatments, suggesting that there is a considerable degree of genetic determination
of R0 in this population and that clonal selection could rapidly lead to increasing population mean fitness under all investigated
conditions. More specifically, the H² was 0.392 at 20 °C+Cd and 0.563 at 24 °C+Cd; the CVG was 30.0 % at 20 °C+Cd and was significantly higher (147.6 %) in the 24 °C+Cd treatment. Significant values of h2 (= 0.23) and CVA (= 89.7 %) were only found in the 24 °C+Cd treatment, suggesting that the ability to produce more offspring under this stressful
condition may be inherited across sexual generations. In contrast, in the less stressful 20 °C+Cd treatment the h2 (0.06) and CVA (7.0 %) were very low and not significantly higher than zero. Collectively our data indicate that both the asexual and sexual
reproduction phases in cyclic parthenogenetic D. magna populations may play a role in the long-term adaptive potential of Daphnia populations to chemical stress (with Cd as the current example) and that environmental variables which influence the stress
level of that chemical may influence this adaptive potential (with temperature as current example).
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-12
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0923-2
Authors
M. Messiaen, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Department Applied Ecology and Environmental Biology, Ghent University, Jozef Plateaustraat 22, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
C. R. Janssen, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Department Applied Ecology and Environmental Biology, Ghent University, Jozef Plateaustraat 22, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
O. Thas, Department of Mathematical Modelling Statistics and Bio-informatics, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
K. A. C. De Schamphelaere, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Department Applied Ecology and Environmental Biology, Ghent University, Jozef Plateaustraat 22, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
Phenolic compounds are widely distributed in the natural environment, typically existing as a mixture at the nanogram or microgram
per liter level. Among the phenolic compounds, 4-nonylphenol, 4-t-octylphenol, bisphenol A and 2,4-dichlorophenol attract
the most concern due to their abundance and risks within the natural environment. The former three chemicals are known as
endocrine disruptors causing feminization in various organisms, whereas the latter one requires further clarification concerning
its feminization effect. This study aims to evaluate the combined effects of these chemicals using vitellogenin protein induction
in male juvenile goldfish Carassius auratus as an endpoint after 15 days of exposure. The results showed that all these chemicals can induce vitellogenin with a relative
potency of 4-t-octylphenol > bisphenol A > 4-nonylphenol ≫ 2,4-dichlorophenol. 2,4-dichlorophenol showed a very weak estrogenic
effect with an induction of vitellogenin concentration of <1 % of positive control, and it is therefore omitted in further
tests to evaluate their combined effect. The other three chemicals were mixed in two ways, at an equipotent ratio and at an
equal environmental level ratio, and their combined effects were evaluated with both the toxicity units method and concentration
addition model. The resulting effect of exposure to both mixtures showed that these chemicals generally exhibited an additive
effect. The ecological risk of phenolic chemicals may therefore be underestimated if based on the presence of single chemicals
whereas their combined effects warrant further consideration.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-9
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0925-0
Authors
Zhengyan Li, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, 238 Songling Road, 266100 Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
Haili Zhang, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, 238 Songling Road, 266100 Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
Mark Gibson, Department of Process Engineering and Applied Science, Dalhousie University, Sexton Campus, 1360 Barrington St., P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, NS B3J 2X4, Canada
Ping Liu, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, 238 Songling Road, 266100 Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
Soil alkalization is one of the most prominent adverse environmental factors limiting plant growth, while alkali stress affects
amino acids and carbohydrates metabolism. The objective of this study was conducted to investigate the effects of alkali stress
on growth, amino acids and carbohydrates metabolism in Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis). Seventy-day-old plants were subjected to four pH levels: 6.0 (control), 8.0 (low), 9.4 (moderate) and 10.3 (severe) for
7 days. Moderate to severe alkali stress (pH >9.4) caused a significant decline in turf quality and growth rate in Kentucky
bluegrass. Soluble protein was unchanged in shoots, but decreased in roots as pH increased. The levels of amino acids was
kept at the same level as control level at 4 days after treatment (DAT) in shoots, but greater at 7 DAT, when plants were
subjected to severe (pH 10.3) alkali stress. The alkali stressed plants had a greater level of starch, water soluble carbohydrate
and sucrose content, but lower level of fructose and glucose. Fructan and total non-structural carbohydrate (TNC) increased
at 4 DAT and decreased at 7 DAT for alkali stressed plants. These results suggested that the decrease in fructose and glucose
contributed to the growth reduction under alkali stress, while the increase in amino acids, sucrose and storage form of carbohydrate
(fructan, starch) could be an adaptative mechanism in Kentucky bluegrass under alkali stress.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-8
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0924-1
Authors
Pingping Zhang, Key Laboratory of Plant Germplasm Enhancement and Specialty Agriculture, Wuhan Botanical Garden, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, People’s Republic of China
Jinmin Fu, Key Laboratory of Plant Germplasm Enhancement and Specialty Agriculture, Wuhan Botanical Garden, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, People’s Republic of China
Longxing Hu, Key Laboratory of Plant Germplasm Enhancement and Specialty Agriculture, Wuhan Botanical Garden, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, People’s Republic of China
Competition is a ubiquitous factor in natural populations and has been reported to alter the ecological impact of xenobiotics.
We investigated conditions that mirror the natural variation of environmental factors. For this, different treatments were
applied to 96 outdoor pond microcosms by shading the ponds and harvesting the communities. Then, the effect of esfenvalerate
(0.03, 0.3, and 3 μg/L) on populations of Daphnia spp. was investigated. The pesticide effect and the sensitivity of Daphnia spp. in the context of a zooplankton community was increased by intraspecific competition 11 days after contamination. This
relationship was most pronounced at 0.03 and 0.3 μg/L esfenvalerate, which were the concentrations that led to partial mortality.
In contrast, interspecific interaction did not significantly alter the effect of the toxicant on Daphnia spp. Modelled concentration–response curves showed that the negative effects of the pesticide differed by a factor of up
to 100 depending on the strength of intraspecific competition. In addition, a wider range of concentrations led to negative
effects at high levels of intraspecific competition than at low levels. We argue that increased intraspecific competition
reduces the availability of resources at the individual level and thereby increases the effect of contaminants. This knowledge
about the interaction between competition and the response to toxicants is important in assessing the effects of these factors
under field conditions.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0919-y
Authors
Saskia Knillmann, Department of System-Ecotoxicology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstrasse 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
Nathalie C. Stampfli, Department of System-Ecotoxicology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstrasse 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
Mikhail A. Beketov, Department of System-Ecotoxicology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstrasse 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
Matthias Liess, Department of System-Ecotoxicology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstrasse 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
Given the demonstrated antimicrobial properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and the key role that microorganisms play
in performing critical ecosystem functions such as decomposition and nutrient cycling, there is growing concern that AgNP
pollution may negatively impact ecosystems. We examined the response of streamwater and sediment microorganisms to commercially
available 21 ± 17 nm AgNPs, and compared AgNP impacts to those of dissolved-Ag added as AgNO3. We show that in streamwater, AgNPs and AgNO3 decreased respiration in proportion to dissolved-Ag concentrations at the end of the incubation (r2 = 0.78), while in sediment the only measurable effect of AgNPs was a 14 % decrease in sulfate concentration. This contrasts
with the stronger effects of dissolved-Ag additions in both streamwater and sediment. In streamwater, addition of dissolved-Ag
at a level equivalent to the lowest AgNP dose led to respiration below detection, a 55 % drop in phosphatase enzyme activity,
and a 10-fold increase in phosphate concentration. In sediment, AgNO3 addition at a level equivalent to the highest AgNP addition led to a 34 % decrease in respiration, a 55 % increase in microbial
biomass, and a shift in bacterial community composition. The results of this study suggest that, in similar freshwater environments,
the short-term biological impacts of AgNPs on microbes are attenuated by the physical and chemical properties of streamwater
and sediment.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-11
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0920-5
Authors
Benjamin P. Colman, Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
Si-Yi Wang, Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
Toxicokinetic-toxicodynamic (TKTD) models quantify the time-course of internal concentration, which is defined by uptake,
elimination and biotransformation (TK), and the processes which lead to the toxic effects (TD). TKTD models show potential
in predicting pesticide effects in fluctuating concentrations, but the data requirements and validity of underlying model
assumptions are not known. We calibrated TKTD models to predict survival of Gammarus pulex in propiconazole exposure and investigated the data requirements. In order to assess the need of TK in survival models, we
included or excluded simulated internal concentrations based on pre-calibrated TK. Adding TK did not improve goodness of fits.
Moreover, different types of calibration data could be used to model survival, which might affect model parameterization.
We used two types of data for calibration: acute toxicity (standard LC50, 4 d) or pulsed toxicity data (total length 10 d).
The calibration data set influenced how well the survival in the other exposure scenario was predicted (acute to pulsed scenario
or vice versa). We also tested two contrasting assumptions in ecotoxicology: stochastic death and individual tolerance distribution.
Neither assumption fitted to data better than the other. We observed in 10-d toxicity experiments that pulsed treatments killed
more organisms than treatments with constant concentration. All treatments received the same dose, i.e. the time-weighted
average concentration was equal. We studied mode of toxic action of propiconazole and it likely acts as a baseline toxicant
in G. pulex during 10-days of exposure for the endpoint survival.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-13
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0917-0
Authors
Anna-Maija Nyman, Department of Environmental Toxicology, Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 133, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
Kristin Schirmer, Department of Environmental Toxicology, Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 133, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
Roman Ashauer, Department of Environmental Toxicology, Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 133, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
There are large and increasing discharges of statins into the aquatic environment. Statins are cholesterol-lowering pharmaceuticals,
inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, an enzyme in the cholesterol synthesis pathway. Earlier studies
have shown that statins will affect the expression of a range of genes in mammalian tissues and this group of pharmaceuticals
has also been shown to affect membrane transporters. Changes in gene expression and ion transport in aquatic organisms may
have dramatic consequences for the individual. The aim of the present study was to clarify whether waterborne exposure to
a selected statin, atorvastatin, would affect gene expression in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) gill or liver or ion regulation in gills. Juvenile rainbow trout were exposed to two atorvastatin acid and atorvastatin
lactone concentrations for 7 days (nominal concentrations 200 ng L−1 and 10 μg L−1). The exposures caused up-regulated gene expression in gill, not liver, and only at the lowest concentration. Genes involved
in membrane transport (pgp, mrp1), oxidative stress response (sod, mt), apoptosis (bax) and biotransformation (sult2b) were differentially expressed whereas the expression of genes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis (hmgr, fdps) or peroxisomal proliferation (ppar) were not affected. There were no significant changes in gill Na+/K+ ATPase activity following exposure to atorvastatin. The pattern of differentially expressed genes in rainbow trout gills
differ from responses previously observed in mammalian tissues following statin exposure.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-16
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0918-z
Authors
Kathrin Sabine Ellesat, Department of Biology, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1066, Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway
Tor Fredrik Holth, Department of Biology, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1066, Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway
Marcin WÅ‚odzimierz Wojewodzic, Department of Biology, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1066, Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway
Ketil Hylland, Department of Biology, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1066, Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway
The ecological impact of the dithiocarbamate fungicide metiram was studied in outdoor freshwater microcosms, consisting of
14 enclosures placed in an experimental ditch. The microcosms were treated three times (interval 7 days) with the formulated
product BAS 222 28F (Polyram®). Intended metiram concentrations in the overlying water were 0, 4, 12, 36, 108 and 324 μg a.i./L. Responses of zooplankton,
macroinvertebrates, phytoplankton, macrophytes, microbes and community metabolism endpoints were investigated. Dissipation
half-life (DT50) of metiram was approximately 1–6 h in the water column of the microcosm test system and the metabolites formed were not
persistent. Multivariate analysis indicated treatment-related effects on the zooplankton (NOECcommunity = 36 μg a.i./L). Consistent treatment-related effects on the phytoplankton and macroinvertebrate communities and on the sediment
microbial community could not be demonstrated or were minor. There was no evidence that metiram affected the biomass, abundance
or functioning of aquatic hyphomycetes on decomposing alder leaves. The most sensitive populations in the microcosms comprised
representatives of Rotifera with a NOEC of 12 μg a.i./L on isolated sampling days and a NOEC of 36 μg a.i./L on consecutive
samplings. At the highest treatment-level populations of Copepoda (zooplankton) and the blue-green alga Anabaena (phytoplankton) also showed a short-term decline on consecutive sampling days (NOEC = 108 μg a.i./L). Indirect effects in
the form of short-term increases in the abundance of a few macroinvertebrate and several phytoplankton taxa were also observed.
The overall community and population level no-observed-effect concentration (NOECmicrocosm) was 12–36 μg a.i./L. At higher treatment levels, including the test systems that received the highest dose, ecological recovery
of affected measurement endpoints was fast (effect period < 8 weeks).
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-20
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0909-0
Authors
Ronghua Lin, Alterra, Wageningen University and Research Centre, PO Box 47, 6700 AA, Wageningen, The Netherlands
Laura Buijse, Alterra, Wageningen University and Research Centre, PO Box 47, 6700 AA, Wageningen, The Netherlands
Mauricio R. Dimitrov, Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Dreijenplein 10, 6703 HB Wageningen, The Netherlands
Peter Dohmen, BASF SE, Agricultural Center, APD/EE-L1425, Speyerer Str. 2, 67117 Limburgerhof, Germany
Sujitra Kosol, Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2TN UK
Lorraine Maltby, Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2TN UK
Ivo Roessink, Alterra, Wageningen University and Research Centre, PO Box 47, 6700 AA, Wageningen, The Netherlands
Jos A. Sinkeldam, Alterra, Wageningen University and Research Centre, PO Box 47, 6700 AA, Wageningen, The Netherlands
Hauke Smidt, Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Dreijenplein 10, 6703 HB Wageningen, The Netherlands
Due to the difficulty in dispersing some engineered nanomaterials in exposure media, realizing homogeneous distributions of
nanoparticles (NP) in soil may pose major challenges. The present study investigated the distribution of zinc oxide (ZnO)
NP (30 nm) and non-nano ZnO (200 nm) in natural soil using two different spiking procedures, i.e. as dry powder and as suspension
in soil extract. Both spiking procedures showed a good recovery (>85 %) of zinc and based on total zinc concentrations no
difference was found between the two spiking methods. Both spiking procedures resulted in a fairly homogeneous distribution
of the ZnO particles in soil, as evidenced by the low variation in total zinc concentration between replicate samples (<12 %
in most cases). Survival of Folsomia candida in soil spiked at concentrations up to 6,400 mg Zn kg−1 d.w. was not affected for both compounds. Reproduction was reduced in a concentration-dependent manner with EC50 values of
3,159 and 2,914 mg Zn kg−1 d.w. for 30 and 200 nm ZnO spiked as dry powder and 3,593 and 5,633 mg Zn kg−1 d.w. introduced as suspension. Toxicity of ZnO at 30 and 200 nm did not differ. We conclude that the ZnO particle toxicity
is not size related and that the spiking of the soil with ZnO as dry powder or as a suspension in soil extract does not affect
its toxicity to F. candida.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-8
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0914-3
Authors
Pauline L. Waalewijn-Kool, Department of Animal Ecology, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, VU University, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Maria Diez Ortiz, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Maclean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 8BB, UK
Cornelis A. M. van Gestel, Department of Animal Ecology, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, VU University, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Plant protection based on novel alternative strategies is a major concern in agriculture to sustain pest management. The marc
extract of red grape cultivars reveals plant defence inducer properties. Treatment with grape marc extract efficiently induced
hypersensitive reaction-like lesions with cell death evidenced by Evans Blue staining of tobacco leaves. Examination of the
infiltration zone and the surrounding areas under UV light revealed the accumulation of autofluorescent compounds. Both leaf
infiltration and a foliar spray of the red grape extract on tobacco leaves induced defence gene expression. The PR1 and PR2 target genes were upregulated locally and systemically in tobacco plants following grape marc extract treatment. The grape
extract elicited an array of plant defence responses making this natural compound a potential phytosanitary product with a
challenging issue and a rather attractive option for sustainable agriculture and environmentally friendly practices.
In the United States, the US EPA has the responsibility for the registration of pesticides. For the protection of nontarget
terrestrial plants this requires two simple greenhouse tests (seedling emergence and vegetative vigor), each done with ten
species grown individually. Indications of unacceptable effects levels equivalent to environmental exposure can lead to field
testing which is not well-defined. Our objective was to develop a regional field test that is simple, economical, geographically
flexible and with endpoints of ecological significance and compare the results with the standard greenhouse tests. Three native
Oregon plant species were grown together with an introduced species. The experiment was replicated at two locations and repeated
for 3 years with glyphosate applied at 0, 0.01 (8.3 g/ha), 0.1 (83.2 g/ha), and 0.2 (166.4 g/ha) × FAR (Field Application
Rate of 832 gm/ha acid equivalent) and 2 years with aminopyralid applied at 0, 0.037 (4.6 g/ha), 0.136 (16.7 g/ha), and 0.5
(61.5 g/ha) × FAR (123 g/ha acid equivalent). With glyphosate, plant height and volume decreased with increasing herbicide
concentration for all species, and for nearly all farm × year combinations. With aminopyralid, one species died at nearly
all concentrations, sites and years, while the effects on the other three species were less pronounced and variable. The relative
rank in glyphosate sensitivity among species in the field studies differed from the ranking from greenhouse studies, with
Cynososurs echinatus the most sensitive in the field but Prunella vulgaris the most sensitive in the greenhouse. With aminopyralid, sensitivity generally was similar for all species in the greenhouse
as in the field. The results suggest that a simple field test can be successfully designed to investigate the ecological effects
of herbicides on plant communities and supplement information gained from greenhouse tests performed in controlled environments.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-17
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0912-5
Authors
Thomas Pfleeger, US Environmental Protection Agency, Western Ecology Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
Matthew Blakeley-Smith, US Environmental Protection Agency, Western Ecology Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
George King, Dynamac Corporation, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
E. Henry Lee, US Environmental Protection Agency, Western Ecology Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
Milton Plocher, Dynamac Corporation, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
David Olszyk, US Environmental Protection Agency, Western Ecology Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
Parental full life-cycle exposure to ethinylestradiol (EE2) significantly affects embryo development and survival. One of the possible mechanisms of action of EE2 may involve the impairment of an organism’s ability to repair DNA damage. DNA repair mechanisms have sophistically evolved
to overcome DNA damaging hazards that threaten the integrity of the genome. In the present study, changes in the transcription
levels of key genes involved in two of the most thoroughly studied DNA repair systems in mammals were evaluated in adult zebrafish
(Danio rerio) gonad upon full life-cycle exposure to chronic environmentally low levels of EE2 (i.e., 0.5, 1 and 2 ng/L EE2). Real time PCR was used to analyse the expression levels of nucleotide excision repair genes (NER) as well as the tumor
suppressor p53 and downstream selected effectors, i.e., p21 (cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor), GADD45α (growth arrest and
DNA damage induced 45, alpha), bax (bcl2-associated X protein) and p53 key regulator MDM2 (murine double minute 2 protein).
NER genes transcription levels in gonads did not differ significantly among treatments. In contrast, the number of transcripts
of p53 gene was significantly increased in male gonads at all EE2 exposure concentrations and in females at 1 ng/L EE2. Despite the increase in p53 transcripts, transcription levels of p21, GADD45α and bax genes were not affected upon EE2 treatment, whereas MDM2 gene expression significantly increased in females at the intermediate EE2 dose (1 ng/L). Overall, the present study indicate that chronic low levels of EE2 significantly modulates the transcription of p53, a key gene involved in DNA repair, particularly in male zebrafish gonads,
which supports the hypothesis of an impact of EE2 in male gonad DNA repair pathways.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0905-4
Authors
J. Soares, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, CIMAR/CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Rua dos Bragas 177, 4050-123 Porto, Portugal
L. Filipe C. Castro, Laboratory of Cellular, Molecular and Analytical Studies, CIMAR/CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Rua dos Bragas 177, 4050-123 Porto, Portugal
M. A. Reis-Henriques, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, CIMAR/CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Rua dos Bragas 177, 4050-123 Porto, Portugal
N. M. Monteiro, CEBIMED, FCS-UFP, Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, Oporto, Portugal
M. M. Santos, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, CIMAR/CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Rua dos Bragas 177, 4050-123 Porto, Portugal
The objective of the study was to determine whether long-term metal pollution affects communities of epigeal spiders (Aranea), studied at three taxonomic levels: species, genera, and families. Biodiversity was defined by three indices: the Hierarchical
Richness Index (HRI), Margalef index (DM) and Pielou evenness index (J). In different ways the indices describe taxa richness and the distribution of individuals
among taxa. The dominance pattern of the communities was described with four measures: number of dominant species at a site,
percentage of dominant species at a site, average dominant species abundance at a site, and the share of the most numerous
species (Alopecosa cuneata) at a site. Spiders were collected along a metal pollution gradient in southern Poland, extending ca. 33 km from zinc and
lead smelter to an uncontaminated area. The zinc concentration in soil was used as the pollution index.The study revealed
a significant effect of metal pollution on spider biodiversity as described by HRI for species (p = 0.039), genera (p = 0.0041) and families (p = 0.0147), and by DM for genera (p = 0.0259) and families (p = 0.0028). HRI correlated negatively with pollution level, while DM correlated positively. This means that although broadly described HRI diversity decreased with increasing pollution level,
species richness increased with increasing contamination. Mesophilic meadows were generally richer. Pielou (J) did not show
any significant correlations. There were a few evidences for the intermediate disturbance hypothesis: certain indices reached
their highest values at moderate pollution levels rather than at the cleanest or most polluted sites.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0906-3
Authors
Sebatian Żmudzki, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
Ryszard Laskowski, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
1,1,1-Trichloroethane (TCA), a major organic and groundwater contaminant, has very strong toxic effects on humans, plants
and microorganisms. Effects of TCA on enzymatic activity and microbial diversity were investigated in the anaerobic sequencing
batch reactor (ASBR) under methanogenic, nitrate-reducing, sulfate-reducing and benzene/toluene degrading conditions. The
activities of three enzymes (lactate dehydrogenase, phosphatase and protease) were significantly decreased in the presence
of 5 mg/L TCA. Within these three affected enzymes, phosphatase activity may serve as a noteworthy marker of bacterial toxicity.
The activity of phosphatase was 0.2 U/L in methanogenic conditions with 5 mg/L TCA, which was 99% lower than the controls,
and the enzyme activity was 18.6 U/L in methanogenic conditions with 1 mg/L TCA, which was 7% lower than the controls. DGGE
profiles showed that TCA altered the bacterial community distribution and diversity obviously during the 21 day of TCA exposure.
The enzyme activities decreased second lowest but TCA degrading strains Clostridium sp. DhR-2/LM-G01, Bacterial clone DCE25 and Bacterial clone DPHB06 were enriched in the methanogenic ASBR amended TCA.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0896-1
Authors
Hui Li, State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Wei Zhang, State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Lu Li, State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Yong-Di Liu, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Kuang-Fei Lin, State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Shu-Guang Lu, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Bo-Zhong Mu, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Bioengineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Xiao-Ming Du, Department of Soil Pollution Control, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012 People’s Republic of China
Qiang Lu, State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Qian Zhang, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Bioengineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Ting-Ting Shen, State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Bing-Zhi Li, State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Li-Ming Zhao, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Bioengineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 People’s Republic of China
Yang-Yang Li, Shanghai Research Institute of Chemical Industry, Shanghai, 200062 People’s Republic of China
In the present study, juvenile whitefish weighing 2 g were exposed by force-feeding to two ecologically relevant doses (0.05
and 0.5 μg per fish) of microcystin-LR (MC-LR). Then over 96 h the MC uptake in fish liver and muscle was measured, as the
activity of the detoxification enzyme glutathione S-transferase (GST) in the liver, and the genotoxicity impact on red blood
cells. Results show that (1) the MC-LR equivalent concentrations increased for both doses and in both organs of whitefish
with approximately threefold lower concentrations for the low dose compared to the high dose in both organs and threefold
lower concentrations in the muscle compared to the liver for each dose (2) the liver GST activity increased during the first
48 h of exposure with fivefold higher GST activity for the highest dose at 48 h compared to control and (3) MC-LR leads to
deoxyribonucleic acid strand breaks that were detected by the comet assay and shown to be partially repaired. This work demonstrates
that European whitefish could be impacted by cyanobacteria toxins due to rapid microcystin uptake, especially in the context
of chronic contamination, which can occur during long bloom episodes.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-9
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0913-4
Authors
Benoît Sotton, INRA, UMR CARRTEL, 75 av. de Corzent, 74203 Thonon Les Bains, France
Glyphosate-based formulations are among the most widely used herbicides in the world. The effect of the formulation Glifosato
Atanor® on freshwater microbial communities (phytoplankton, bacterioplankton, periphyton and zooplankton) was assessed through a
manipulative experiment using six small outdoor microcosms of small volume. Three of the microcosms were added with 3.5 mg l−1 of glyphosate whereas the other three were left as controls without the herbicide. The treated microcosms showed a significant
increase in total phosphorus, not fully explained by the glyphosate present in the Glifosato Atanor®. Therefore, part of the phosphorus should have come from the surfactants of the formulation. The results showed significant
direct and indirect effects of Glifosato Atanor® on the microbial communities. A single application of the herbicide caused a fast increase both in the abundance of bacterioplankton
and planktonic picocyanobacteria and in chlorophyll a concentration in the water column. Although metabolic alterations related to oxidative stress were induced in the periphyton
community, the herbicide favored its development, with a large contribution of filamentous algae typical of nutrient-rich
systems, with shallow and calm waters. An indirect effect of the herbicide on the zooplankton was observed due to the increase
in the abundance of the rotifer Lecane spp. as a consequence of the improved food availability given by picocyanobacteria and bacteria. The formulation affected
directly a fraction of copepods as a target. It was concluded that the Glifosato Atanor® accelerates the deterioration of the water quality, especially when considering small-volume water systems.
Leonardo Lagomarsino, Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (IIB-INTECH), CC 164, 7130, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Roberto Escaray, Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (IIB-INTECH), CC 164, 7130, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
The red-billed quelea bird Quelea quelea is one of sub-Saharan Africa’s most damaging pests, attacking small-grain crops throughout semi-arid zones. It is routinely
controlled by spraying its breeding colonies and roosts with organophosphate pesticides, actions often associated with detrimental
effects on non-target organisms. Attributions of mortality and morbidity of non-targets to the sprays are difficult to confirm
unequivocally but can be achieved by assessing depressions in cholinesterase activities since these are reduced by exposure
to organophosphates. Here we report on surveys of birds caught before and after sprays that were examined for their blood
cholinesterase activities to assess the extent to which these became depressed. Blood samples from birds were taken before
and after sprays with fenthion against red-billed quelea in colonies or roosts, and at other unsprayed sites, in Botswana
and Tanzania and analysed for levels of haemoglobin (Hb) and activities of whole blood acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase
(BChE). Background activities of AChE, BChE and Hb concentrations varied with bird species, subspecies, mass, age and gender.
Contrary to expectation, since avian erythrocytes are often reported to lack cholinesterases, acetylcholinesterase activities
in pre-spray samples of adult birds were positively correlated with Hb concentrations. When these factors were taken into
account there were highly significant declines (P < 0.0001) in AChE and BChE and increases in Hb after contact with fenthion in both target and non-target birds. BChE generally
declined further (up to 87 % depression) from baseline levels than AChE (up to 83 % depression) but did so at a slower rate
in a sample of quelea nestlings. Baseline activities of AChE and BChE and levels of Hb were higher in the East African subspecies
of the red-billed quelea Q. q. aethiopica than in the southern African subspecies Q. q. lathamii, with the exception of BChE activities for adult males which were equivalent.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0911-6
Authors
Robert A. Cheke, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham Maritime, Kent, ME4 4TB UK
Andrew N. McWilliam, The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen, AB15 8QH Scotland, UK
Collen Mbereki, Division of Plant Protection, Ministry of Agriculture, Gaborone, Botswana
Etienne van der Walt, ARC, Plant Protection Research Institute, Pretoria, South Africa
Boaz Mtobesya, Plant Health Services, Ministry of Agriculture Food Security and Cooperatives, Arusha, Tanzania
Richard N. Magoma, Plant Health Services, Ministry of Agriculture Food Security and Cooperatives, Arusha, Tanzania
Stephen Young, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham Maritime, Kent, ME4 4TB UK
J. Patrick Eberly, EQM Research, 2814 Urwiler Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45211, USA
Because toxicants rarely occur alone in the environment, a major challenge in risk assessment is to address the combined effects
of chemicals on aquatic organisms. This work is aimed at investigating the joint toxicity action of binary mixtures of cadmium
and arsenate on Gammarus pulex. Individuals were exposed during 240 h to four single arsenate or cadmium concentrations and binary mixtures of these metals
according to a complete factorial plane. Observed mortality in binary mixtures was compared to observed mortality in single
arsenate or cadmium exposures. In addition, interactive effects (antagonistic, additive or synergistic) were evaluated using
a predictive model for the theoretically expected interactive effect of chemicals. For all the tested concentration combinations,
we observed an antagonist ‘between-metals’ interaction on G. pulex mortality. This antagonistic effect was more marked for the lowest than for the highest (i.e. 1502.0 μgAsV L−1 and 28.5 μgCd L−1) tested concentrations of individual metals in binary mixtures. Metal concentrations in body tissues were evaluated and were
significantly lower in binary mixtures than in single metal exposures at similar concentration, especially for combinations
corresponding to the highest concentrations of both metals (1502.0 μgAsV L−1 and 28.5 μgCd L−1). Results were discussed in terms of (1) mechanisms of uptake and bioconcentration and (2) relationships between metal concentration
in gammarid body and observed toxicity.
Endosulfan (6,7,8,9,10,10-hexachloro-1,5,5a,6,9,9a-hexahydro-6,9-methano-2,4,3-benzo-dioxathiepin-3-oxide), an organochlorine
pesticide, is prevalently used all around the world. It is considered to be a new candidate for the persistent organic pollutants
group. Endosulfan residues in the environment may cause serious damage to ecosystems, especially in aquatic environments.
The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of endosulfan on antioxidant enzymes [catalase (CAT) and superoxide
dismutase (SOD)], reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and DNA damage in zebrafish. Male and female zebrafish were separated
and exposed to a control solution and four concentrations of endosulfan (0.01, 0.1, 1, and 10 μg L−1) and were sampled after 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. It is noteworthy that the present research explored the correlation among
the three indicators induced by endosulfan. Low endosulfan concentrations (0.01 μg L−1) induced a slight increase of SOD and CAT activity, which kept ROS in a stable level. High endosulfan concentration (10 μg L−1) induced excessive ROS production which exceeded the capacity of the cellular antioxidants and exhausted the enzyme including
CAT and SOD. The DNA damage of zebrafish was evaluated by single-cell gel electrophoresis and was enhanced with increasing
endosulfan concentration. In conclusion, the present study showed that endosulfan (0.01–10 μg L−1) has toxic effects on zebrafish.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-8
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0907-2
Authors
Bo Shao, College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Road, Taian, 271018 China
Lusheng Zhu, College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Road, Taian, 271018 China
Miao Dong, College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Road, Taian, 271018 China
Jun Wang, College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Road, Taian, 271018 China
Jinhua Wang, College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Road, Taian, 271018 China
Hui Xie, College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Road, Taian, 271018 China
Qingming Zhang, College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Road, Taian, 271018 China
Zhongkun Du, College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, 61 Daizong Road, Taian, 271018 China
Shaoyuan Zhu, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266109 China
The responses of aquatic organisms to chronic exposure to environmental concentrations of toxicants, often found in mixtures,
are poorly documented. Here passive sampler extracts were used in experimental contamination of laboratory channels, to investigate
their effects on natural biofilm communities. A realistic mixture of pesticides extracted from Polar Organic Chemical Integrative
Samplers was used to expose biofilms in laboratory channels to total pesticide concentrations averaging 0.5 ± 0.1 μg l−1. The level of exposure was representative of field conditions in terms of relative proportions of the substances but the
exposure concentration was not maintained (decreasing concentrations between contamination occasions). The impact on the structural
as well as the functional characteristics of the autotrophic and heterotrophic components was determined, using biofilm grown
in uncontaminated conditions (reference site) and in sites exposed to pesticides (contaminated site). The exposure imposed
did not significantly modify the structure or functions of reference biofilms, nor did it modify tolerance as measured by
mixture EC50 (EC50 mix). In contrast, the communities from the more contaminated downstream section lost tolerance following decreased dose
exposure, but community composition remained fairly stable. Overall, these results indicate that low levels of contamination
did not lead to strong changes in community structure, and 14-day changes in tolerance seemed to depend mainly on physiological
adaptation, suggesting that other environmental factors or longer-lasting processes prevailed. This study reports the first
attempt to use passive sampler extracts as a realistic composite contaminant for experimental exposure of biofilms, with promising
perspectives in further ecotoxicology studies.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-11
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0910-7
Authors
Soizic Morin, Irstea, UR REBX, 50 Avenue de Verdun, 33612 Cestas Cedex, France
The adverse effects of Cr(III), Cr(VI), and Ni(II) expressed as root and shoot growth inhibition, metal accumulation and translocation
throughout plants, and genotoxicity study were examined. To examine phytoxicity and metal accumulation, Vicia sativa, Raphanus sativus, Zea mays and Sinapis alba plants were used. Except for S. alba root growth inhibition, Ni had the strongest inhibitory effect on root and shoot growth. The inhibitory rank order based
on IC50 values was Ni(II) > Cr(VI) > Cr(III). Z. mays was the least sensitive to all metals. While the accumulation of Cr was higher in the roots than the upper plant parts, Ni
transport to shoots was at least two times higher than that of Cr. The highest accumulation of Cr was found in Z. mays and that of Ni in V. sativa and Z. mays roots. For all plants, the translocation factor was higher for Cr(VI) than for Cr(III). The translocation factor for Ni was
several times higher than those of Cr. For mutagenicity assay, root tips of V. sativa, R. sativus and Z. mays were used. All metals exerted a significant increase of chromosomal aberrations and the rank order of aberrations was: Cr(VI) > Ni(II) > Cr(III).
Genotoxic effects of metals were also determined by analysis of micronuclei frequency in the pollen tetrads of Tradescantia plants. None of metals significantly stimulated micronuclei frequency and the genotoxic effect decreased in the following
order: Cr(VI) ≥ Ni(II) > Cr(III).
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-8
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0901-8
Authors
A. Fargašová, Department of Ecosozology and Physiotactics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Mlynská dolina, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
This study compared two methods, based on re-analyzed data from a partly published life table response experiment (LTRE),
to help determine the optimal approach for designing ecotoxicological assessments. The 36-day LTRE data recorded the toxic
effects of cadmium (Cd) and imidacloprid, alone and in combination, on the reproduction and survivorship of aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum Harris). We used this data to construct an age-classified matrix model (six age classes, each 6 days long) to estimate aphid
population growth rate (λ) under each treatment. For each treatment, an elasticity analysis and a demographic decomposition
analysis were performed, and results were compared. Despite different results expected from the two toxicants, the elasticity
values were very similar. The elasticity of λ with respect to survival was highest in the first age class, and that with respect
to fertility was highest in the second age class. The demographic decomposition analysis examined how changes in life-history
traits contributed to differences in λ between control and treated populations (Δλ). This indicated that the most important
contributors to Δλ were the differences in survival (resulting from both demographic sensitivity and toxicity) in the first
and the second age classes of aphids and differences in fertility in the third and the fourth age classes. Additionally, the
toxicants acted differently. Cd reduced Δλ by impairing fertility at third age class and reducing survivorship from the second
to the third age class. Imidacloprid mostly reduced survivorship at the first and second age classes. The elasticity and decomposition
analyses showed different results, because these methods addressed different questions about the interaction of organism life
history and sensitivity to toxicants. This study indicated that the LTRE may be useful for designing individual-level ecotoxicological
experiments that account for both the effects of the toxicant and the demographic sensitivity of the organism.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-9
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0904-5
Authors
Natnael T. Hamda, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
Dragan M. Jevtić, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
Ryszard Laskowski, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
Fungicide applications in the United States have increased tenfold in the last 5 years. Formulations and active ingredients
(AIs) have been demonstrated to cause acute mortality to amphibian life stages. However, there has been little to no discrimination
between the toxicity of fungicide formulations and their AIs. Therefore, we compared the acute toxicity of the active ingredients
and formulations of the fungicides Headline®, Stratego®, and Quilt® using Bufo cognatus tadpoles exposed to four concentrations and a control. All fungicides, including AIs and formulations, demonstrated toxicity
to tadpoles, with Headline® and Stratego® causing 100 % mortality at the highest concentrations. Exposure to Quilt® formulation and its AIs resulted in 50–60 % tadpole mortality. Overall, toxicity was comparable between AIs and formulations
for all fungicides and concentrations, with the exception of Headline® at 5 μg/L, where formulation exposure resulted in 79 % mortality versus no mortality from exposure to the AI. Results suggest
the AIs are responsible for most mortality for Quilt® and Stratego®. Results for Headline® however suggest that although the AI is toxic to tadpoles at environmentally relevant concentrations, adjuvant(s) in the
Headline® formulation also contribute to mortality, making it the most toxic of the fungicides studied.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-7
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0899-y
Authors
Emily A. Hooser, Department of Zoology, Oklahoma State University, 501 Life Sciences West, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
Jason B. Belden, Department of Zoology, Oklahoma State University, 501 Life Sciences West, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
Loren M. Smith, Department of Zoology, Oklahoma State University, 501 Life Sciences West, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
Scott T. McMurry, Department of Zoology, Oklahoma State University, 501 Life Sciences West, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
Zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos were comparably exposed to seven known agonists of retinoid X receptors (RXRs) including two endogenous compounds
(9-cis-retinoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid), four man-made selective ligands (LGD1069, SR11237, fluorobexarotene and CD3254),
and a biocide (triphenyltin). The dominant phenotypes of malformation were sharp mouths and small caudal fins in 1 mg/L SR11237-treated
group after 5 days exposure. 9-cis-retinoic acid and LGD1069 induced multiple malformations including small eyes, bent notochords, reduced brain, enlarged proctodaems,
absence of fins, short tails and edema after 5 days exposure. Fluorobexarotene and CD3254 induced similar phenotypes of malformations
after 5 days exposure at low concentration (20 μg/L) to those after the 1st d exposure at high concentrations (50 and 100 μg/L).
Triphenlytin induced multiple malformations including deformed eyes, bent notochords, bent tails, and edema in hearts after
5 days exposure at concentrations of 1–10 μg Sn/L. In contrast, no discernible malformations were observed in triphenlytin-treated
groups after each separate day exposure. These agonists not only showed different ability of teratogenicity but also induced
different phenotypes of malformation in zebrafish embryos. In addition, the sensitive stages of zebrafish embryos were different
in response to these agonists. Therefore, our results suggest that the agonists of RXRs had divergent teratogenicity in zebrafish
embryos.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-11
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0900-9
Authors
Huahong Shi, State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
Pan Zhu, Key Laboratory of Urbanization and Ecological Restoration, Department of Environmental Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
Zhi Sun, Key Laboratory of Urbanization and Ecological Restoration, Department of Environmental Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
Bo Yang, Key Laboratory of Urbanization and Ecological Restoration, Department of Environmental Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
Liang Zheng, State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
In the present study, the effect of organic pollution on land snails Eobania vermiculata was investigated. Five pollution biomarkers (neutral red retention assay, morphometry of lysosomes and neutral lipids, acetylcholinesterase
activity and metallothioneins content, were applied on tissues of the land snails. The results showed intense differentiations
between the snails treated with organic pollutants and the control ones, as indicated by the results obtained. Statistically
significant correlations among the results obtained emphasize the usefulness of these biomarkers.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-11
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0902-7
Authors
A. Itziou, Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
V. K. Dimitriadis, Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
We measured a suite of common biomarker responses for the first time in the Sydney rock oyster Saccostrea glomerata to evaluate their utility as biological effects measures for pollution monitoring. To examine the relationship between biomarker
responses and population level effects, fertilisation and embryo development assays were also conducted. Adult oysters were
deployed in two contaminated estuaries and a reference estuary in Sydney, Australia. The concentrations of various contaminants
(metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, PAHs) were quantified in oyster’s tissue from each site and both metals and total
PAHs were significantly elevated in contaminated estuaries relative to the reference estuary. Lysosomal membrane destabilisation,
lipid peroxidation levels and glutathione (GSH) concentrations were measured in the digestive gland of oysters. Of all biomarkers
measured, lysosomal membrane destabilisation proved to be the most useful indicator of oysters facing anthropogenic stress
and we suggest this may be an especially useful biomarker for incorporation into local environmental monitoring programs.
Moreover, lysosomal membrane destabilisation showed good correlations with fertilisation, normal embryo development and estuary
status. GSH and lipid peroxidation were not as valuable for distinguishing between estuaries exposed to differing levels of
anthropogenic stress, but did provide additional valuable information regarding overall health status of the oysters.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-11
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0895-2
Authors
Katelyn J. Edge, Evolution and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
Emma L. Johnston, Evolution and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
Anthony C. Roach, Centre for Ecotoxicology, NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, Lidcombe, NSW, Australia
Amy H. Ringwood, Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
The Flix reservoir, in the low course of the Ebro River, contains thousands of tons of polluted sediments, accumulated from
the activities of a chemical factory. An ongoing project is working toward removing these pollutants. Piscivore birds like
the purple heron (Ardea purpurea) may be useful bioindicators, so eggs and nestling feathers were sampled during the 2006–2008 breeding seasons at three localities:
a reference site situated upstream and two potentially affected by the toxic muds; one at the focal area and one at a distal
area, the Ebro Delta. The samples were analyzed for isotopic signatures of 15N and 13C and concentrations of heavy metals and selenium. Baseline nitrogen signatures were higher in riverine sites than in the
delta. Nitrogen together with carbon signatures adequately discriminated riverine and deltaic ecosystems. Mercury levels are
highly influenced by the polluted sediments at Flix and pose potential risks for the birds, as they are among the highest
ever recorded in heron species. Selenium and copper concentrations probably derive from other sources. Except for mercury,
heavy metals and selenium levels were below toxic levels. Purple heron eggs and nestling feathers have demonstrated their
usefulness as bioindicators for pollution in the river biota; feathers in particular show pollutant impacts on a strict local
basis. A long series of study years is necessary in dynamic ecosystems such as this, so continued monitoring of the heron
population at Flix is advisable to trace the effects of the toxic muds, particularly during their removal, because of the
high levels of mercury detected.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-12
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0893-4
Authors
Javier CotÃn, Department Biologia Animal, Facultat de Biologia, Univesitat de Barcelona, Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
Manuel GarcÃa-Tarrasón, Department Biologia Animal, Facultat de Biologia, Univesitat de Barcelona, Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
Lluis Jover, Department Salut Pública, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
Carolina Sanpera, Department Biologia Animal, Facultat de Biologia, Univesitat de Barcelona, Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
It has been widely recognized that pesticides represent a potential threat in aquatic ecosystems. However, the knowledge on
the genotoxicity of pesticides to fish is still limited. Moreover, genotoxic studies have been almost exclusively focused
on the active ingredients, whereas the effect of adjuvants is frequently ignored. Hence, the present study addressed the herbicide
Roundup®, evaluating the relative contribution of the active ingredient (glyphosate) and the surfactant (polyethoxylated amine; POEA)
to the genotoxicity of the commercial formulation on Anguilla anguilla. Fish were exposed to equivalent concentrations of Roundup® (58, 116 μg L−1), glyphosate (17.9, 35.7 μg L−1) and POEA (9.3, 18.6 μg L−1), during 1 and 3 days. The comet assay was applied to blood cells, either as the standard procedure, or with an extra step
involving DNA lesion-specific repair enzymes in an attempt to clarify DNA damaging mechanisms. The results confirmed the genotoxicity
of Roundup®, also demonstrating the genotoxic potential of glyphosate and POEA individually. Though both components contributed to the
overall genotoxicity of the pesticide formulation, the sum of their individual effects was never observed, pointing out an
antagonistic interaction. Although POEA is far from being considered biologically inert, it did not increase the risk associated
to glyphosate when the two were combined. The analysis of oxidatively induced breaks suggested that oxidation of DNA bases
was not a dominant mechanism of damage. The present findings highlighted the risk posed to fish populations by the assessed
chemicals, jointly or individually, emphasizing the need to define regulatory thresholds for all the formulation components
and recommending, in particular, the revision of the hazard classification of POEA.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0892-5
Authors
S. Guilherme, Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
M. A. Santos, Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
C. Barroso, Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
I. Gaivão, CECAV and Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro University, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
M. Pacheco, Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
To investigate whether endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was involved in apoptosis induced by cyanobacteria-blooming water,
healthy male ICR mice were fed with water samples from cyanobacteria-blooming regions of Lake Taihu (China), including Meiliang
Bay (M1 and M2), central lake region (H), macrophyte-dominated Xukou Bay (X), and tap water (control group) for three consecutive
months. Hepatic and renal mRNA and protein expression of ER stress signaling molecules were measured with quantitative real-time
PCR and western blotting. Compared to macrophyte-dominated and control water samples, cyanobacteria-blooming water changed
hepatic ER stress signaling molecules. M1 water treatment increased the mRNA and protein levels of glucose regulation protein
78 (GRP78) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), and decreased the mRNA levels of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). M2 water treatment
up-regulated GRP78 mRNA and protein expression, whereas H water treatment up-regulated mRNA and protein expression of GRP78
and caspase-12. Cyanobacteria-blooming water exposure also changed mRNA and protein expression of ER stress signaling molecules
in the kidneys. M1 water exposure up-regulated GRP78 mRNA and protein expression and CHOP mRNA expression, whereas M2 water
treatment up-regulated caspase-12 and Bcl-2 mRNA expression. M1 and M2 cyanobacteria-blooming water exposure significantly
increased relative liver weights, and induced hepatic cell apoptosis. However, cyanobacteria-blooming water treatment did
not change kidney weights, and did not induce renal apoptosis compared to macrophyte-dominated and control water samples.
Hence, cyanobacteria-blooming water induces hepatic apoptosis via ER stress, and ER stress may play an important role in the
apparent anti-apoptotic effects on renal cells exposed to cyanobacteria-blooming water.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-9
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0903-6
Authors
Wendi Qin, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210046 People’s Republic of China
Liuyan Yang, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210046 People’s Republic of China
Xuxiang Zhang, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210046 People’s Republic of China
Zongyao Zhang, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210046 People’s Republic of China
Lizhi Xu, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, 210093 People’s Republic of China
Jun Wu, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210046 People’s Republic of China
Jing An, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210046 People’s Republic of China
Yaping Wang, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, 210093 People’s Republic of China
Chironomid species are a vital component in many benthic and terrestrial food webs; they have an important role in the detritus
cycle, and are an important source of food for many species. We studied how tributyltin (TBT) in brackish water sediments
affect the composition of chironomid species communities. Emergence traps were used at selected sites on a TBT gradient in
the Archipelago Sea, S-W Finland. Increased sediment TBT concentration was associated with significant chironomid species
turnover, which in turn was related to decreased species diversity (number of species and genera). However, the overall number
of individuals did not decrease markedly with increasing TBT contamination. This suggests that the ecological role of chironomids
in the food web may be preserved even under severe impoverishment of the chironomid community due to organic tin contamination.
The increased prevalence of more TBT tolerant species can potentially lead to a transport of organic tin compounds between
aquatic and terrestrial food webs. Furthermore, the reduced diversity of an ecologically influential group might lower the
resistance of the entire food web to other environmental hazards and perturbations.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-12
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0887-2
Authors
T. Lilley, Section of Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
L. Ruokolainen, Department of Biosciences, Helsinki University, P.O. Box 65, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
E. Vesterinen, Section of Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
L. Paasivirta, Ruuhikoskenkatu 17 B 5, 24240 Salo, Finland
K. Norrdahl, Section of Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
The dinoflagellate algae survive variations in water temperature as well as sudden exposures to toxic substances; heat shock
proteins (HSPs) seem to function as part of their cell survival strategy. In the present study, we determined the complete
open reading frame (ORF) of HSP90 gene in the dinoflagellate Prorocentrum minimum (PmHSP90), and examined the expression levels of the gene after exposure to thermal stressors, copper metal, and endocrine-disrupting
chemicals, including bisphenol A (BPA) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB). The complete ORF of PmHSP90 was 2,130-bp long, encoding a 709-amino acid-long polypeptide (81.62 kDa), and bearing characteristics of the HSP90 family
and conserved domains. Real-time (RT)-PCR analyses revealed different expression patterns after exposure to heat, metals,
and chemicals. The expression of PmHSP90 was significantly upregulated by increased thermal stresses, with the highest changes of 2.4-fold and 1.9-fold occurring
after 24 h at 25 °C and 30 °C, respectively. The gene expression dramatically increased (2.1 to 8.9-fold changes) with increasing
concentrations of copper (one-way ANOVA, P < 0.01). Treatment with BPA or PCB, however, did not induce significant changes in PmHSP90 expression. These data suggest that the dinoflagellate HSP90 responds to thermal stressors, but may differentially respond to toxic substances such as metals and endocrine-disrupting
chemicals.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0898-z
Authors
Ruoyu Guo, Department of Green Life Science, Sangmyung University, Seoul, 110-743 Korea
Jang-Seu Ki, Department of Green Life Science, Sangmyung University, Seoul, 110-743 Korea
Metal wastes can significantly disturb aquatic communities, particularly photosynthetic organisms, the main primary producers
in freshwater running ecosystems. In this study, biofilms and diatoms were used as bioindicators to characterize the kinetics
of biofilm recovery. An experimental decontamination study was conducted under laboratory conditions, after biofilm colonisation
at a site subject to discharge of industrial metals (Zn and Cd) and in parallel at an upstream site, metal-free, considered
as a control. After 24 days of colonisation, biofilms were translocated and maintained in the laboratory for 56 days under
clean conditions (control and decontamination) or metal contamination. Various tests were conducted from the community level—measures
of metal bioaccumulation, cell densities and taxonomic investigations, to the individual level—measures of teratological forms.
After 56 days of decontamination, Zn and Cd concentrations in decontaminated biofilms showed a sharp decline, respectively
ranging from 6.7 ± 2 to 4 ± 2.5 mg Zn g−1 DW and from 207.6 ± 24.5 to 45.4 ± 9.9 μg Cd g−1 DW. However, at the end of the experiment bioaccumulations remained significantly higher than concentrations in control biofilms.
Despite a diatom evolution in biofilm assemblages, taxonomic inventories did not demonstrate a complete restoration of diatom
communities in biofilms under decontamination conditions compared with controls, since metal-resistant species initially present
after colonisation at the contaminated site, such as Eolimna minima, persisted in high abundance in decontaminated biofilms. Biofilms kept under metal pressure showed very high bioaccumulation
capacities and a sharp decline of species diversity which allowed identification of some resistant species. Regarding these
first results on the behaviour of diatom biofilms under experimental decontamination conditions, improvement of the natural
hydrosystem’s chemical state appears quickly, but an eventual return to good ecological status appears delayed, with the persistence
of metal-tolerant species even after 56 days.
A major challenge in ecotoxicology is to understand the effects of multiple toxicants on organisms. Here we assess the effects
on survival, weight change, cocoon production and metabolism caused by exposure to two similarly acting (imidacloprid/thiacloprid)
and two dissimilarly acting (chlorpyrifos/Nickel) chemicals on the earthworm Lumbricus rubellus. We assessed the standard models of concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA), in conjunction with a metabolomics
based approach to elucidate mechanisms of effect. For imidacloprid and thiacloprid the reproductive effects indicated probable
additivity. Although this suggests joint effects through a similar mechanism, metabolite changes for each pesticide actually
indicated distinct effects. Further, earthworms exposed to a 0.5 toxic unit equitoxic mixture demonstrated metabolic effects
intermediate between those for each pesticide, indicating a non-interactive, independent joint effect. For higher effect level
mixtures (1 and 1.5 toxic units), metabolite changes associated with thiacloprid exposure began to dominate. The metabolomic
effects of the two dissimilarly acting chemicals were distinct, confirming separate modes of action and both proved more toxic
than anticipated from previous studies. In the mixtures, phenotypic effects were in accordance with IA estimates, while metabolite
changes were dominated by Ni effects, even though chlorpyrifos contributed most to reproductive toxicity. This could be attributed
to the greater systematic effect of Ni when compared to the more specifically acting chlorpyrifos.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-12
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0897-0
Authors
A. J. Baylay, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, The Sanger Building, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1GA UK
D. J. Spurgeon, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, Oxon OX10 8BB, UK
C. Svendsen, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, Oxon OX10 8BB, UK
J. L. Griffin, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, The Sanger Building, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1GA UK
Suresh C. Swain, School of Biomedical Sciences, Analytical and Environmental Sciences Division, King’s College London, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH UK
Stephen R. Sturzenbaum, School of Biomedical Sciences, Analytical and Environmental Sciences Division, King’s College London, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH UK
O. A. H. Jones, School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476V, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame-retardants which can bioaccumulate and biomagnify and are found worldwide
despite their banned usage in some countries. In recent years, the possibility that PBDEs may disrupt endocrine functions
in vertebrates has been well investigated, but little attention has been paid to the endocrine disrupting potential in aquatic
invertebrates. The current study aimed to investigate whether PBDEs affect molting in neonatal Daphnia magna. Prior to molting studies, 48 h LC50 values were tested for several environmentally prevalent PBDEs: PBDEs-28, -47, -99,
-100 and -209. The 48 h LC50s determined were 110.7, 7.9, 2.6, and 11.1 μg/L for PBDEs-28, -47, -99, and -100, respectively,
but the highest concentration of PBDEs-209 tested (2.5 mg/L) did not affect survival at 48 h. Sublethal concentrations of
these were used to investigate their potential effects on molting, assessed by the time taken to reach 4 molts. Molting studies
found that PBDE-28 at 12 μg/L significantly increased the time it took to complete 4 molts. PBDE-47 at 20 μg/L inhibited daphnid
molting initially but such an inhibitory effect disappeared with the prolongation of exposure due to the death of sensitive
individuals. No other PBDEs affected molting at the concentrations tested, while still maintaining relatively high survival
rates. In conclusion, this study found that PBDEs-28 and -47 can delay molting at μg/L concentrations, which raises concern
for disrupted molting in crustaceans exposed to PBDEs.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0891-6
Authors
Rebecca Davies, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
Enmin Zou, Department of Biological Sciences, Nicholls State University, Thibodaux, LA 70310, USA
Erratum to: Neonicotinoids in bees: a review on concentrations, side-effects and risk assessment
Content Type Journal Article
Category Erratum
Pages 1-1
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0890-7
Authors
Tjeerd Blacquière, Plant Research International, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 69, 6700 AB Wageningen, The Netherlands
Guy Smagghe, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
Cornelis A. M. van Gestel, Department of Animal Ecology, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, VU University, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Veerle Mommaerts, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
We investigated the influence of the acanthocephalan parasite Polymorphus minutus on the mortality of its intermediate host, Gammarus roeseli, exposed to cadmium, by the measure of LC50–96h values as well as the bioaccumulation of cadmium both in the host and in its parasite. LC50 results revealed that infected G. roeseli males died less under cadmium stress than uninfected ones; while the converse has been observed in females. Cadmium resistance
of infected males could be explained by a weaker bioconcentration factor (BCF) than in females. The lower BCF in infected
individuals was closely related with an uptake of cadmium by P. minutus in its host. Nevertheless, although infected females had both weaker BCF and cadmium concentration in their body, the presence
of P. minutus did not induce lower mortality than uninfected females. On the contrary, their sensitivity to cadmium was increased by the
presence of P. minutus. We discuss the hypothesis that differences of mortality between uninfected and infected gammarids could be explained by
a difference of cadmium bioconcentration in host, and by the cadmium bioaccumulation in the parasite. Indeed, results suggested
that P. minutus could help G. roeseli to face with stress, what contributed to keep the host alive and favour the parasite transmission.
Endosulfan is an environmentally persistent pesticide and has been shown to be genotoxic, neurotoxic and carcinogenic to surrounding
organisms. Earthworms are widely used in environmental metabolomic studies to assess soil ecotoxicity. Previous nuclear magnetic
resonance (NMR)-based metabolomic studies have analyzed earthworm tissue extracts after exposure to endosulfan and identified
some key metabolic indicators that can be used as biomarkers of stress. However, some metabolites may have been masked due
to overlap with other metabolites in the tissue extract. Therefore, in this study, the coelomic fluid (CF) and the tissue
extract of the earthworm, Eisenia fetida, were both investigated using 1H NMR-based metabolomics to analyze their metabolic profile in response to endosulfan exposure at three sub-lethal (below
LC50) concentrations. Principal component analysis determined the earthworm CF and earthworm tissue extract to both have significant
separation between the exposed and control at the two highest sub-lethal endosulfan exposures (1.0 and 2.0 μg cm−2). Alanine, glycine, malate, α-ketoglutarate, succinate, betaine, myo-inositol, lactate and spermidine in the earthworm CF
and alanine, glutamine, fumarate, glutamate, maltose, melibiose, ATP and lactate in earthworm tissue extract were all detected
as having significant fluctuations after endosulfan exposure. An increase in ATP production was detected by the increase activity
in the citric acid cycle and by anaerobic metabolism. A significant decrease in the polyamine, spermidine after endosulfan
exposure describes an apoptotic mode of protection which correlates to a previous endosulfan exposure study where DNA damage
has been reported. This study highlights that earthworm CF is a complementary biological medium to tissue extracts and can
be helpful to better understand the toxic mode of action of contaminants at sub-lethal levels in the environment.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-13
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0884-5
Authors
Jimmy Yuk, Department of Chemistry, Scarborough College, University of Toronto, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4, Canada
Myrna J. Simpson, Department of Chemistry, Scarborough College, University of Toronto, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4, Canada
Neonicotinoid insecticides are widely used for controlling sucking pests, and sublethal effects can be expected in beneficial
arthropods like natural enemies. Serangium japonicum is an important predator in many agricultural systems in China, and a potential biological control agent against Bemisia tabaci. We evaluated the toxicity of imidacloprid to S. japonicum and its impact on the functional response to B. tabaci eggs. S. japonicum adults exposed through contact to dried residues of imidacloprid at the recommended field rate on cotton against B. tabaci (4 g active ingredient per 100 l, i.e. 40 ppm [part per million]), and reduced rates (25, 20, 15 and 10 ppm) for 24 h showed
high mortality rates. The mortality induced by a lowest rate, 5 ppm, was not significantly different than the control group
and thus it was considered as a sublethal rate. The lethal rate 50 and hazard quotient (HQ) were estimated to be 11.54 ppm
and 3.47 respectively, indicating a risk for S. japonicum in treated fields (HQ > 2). When exposed to dried residues of imidacloprid at the sublethal rate (5 ppm) on cotton leaves,
functional response of S.japonicum to B. tabaci eggs was affected with an increase in handling time and a reduction in peak consumption of eggs. Imidacloprid residues also
disturbed predator voracity, the number of B. tabaci eggs consumed on treated leaves being significantly lower than on untreated leaves. All effects disappeared within a few
hours after transfer to untreated cotton leaves. Imidacloprid systemically applied at the recommended field rate (for cotton)
showed no toxicity to S. japonicum, nor affected the functional response of the predator. Sublethal effects of imidacloprid on S. japonicum observed in our study likely negatively affect S. japonicum development and reproductive capacity and may ultimately reduce predator population growth. These results hint at the importance
of assessing potential effects of imidacloprid on S. japonicum for developing effective integrated pest management programs of B. tabaci in China.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0883-6
Authors
Yuxian He, Institute of Plant Protection, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013 People’s Republic of China
Jianwei Zhao, Institute of Plant Protection, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013 People’s Republic of China
Yu Zheng, Institute of Plant Protection, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013 People’s Republic of China
Nicolas Desneux, French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), 400 Route des Chappes, 06903 Sophia Antipolis, France
Kongming Wu, State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
We compared capture rates and exposure to SGARs of wood mice (Apodemus sylvaticus) and house mice (Mus domesticus) in autumn/winter on farms that currently used, had previously used, and never used SGARs. 6–10 weeks after baiting programmes
began, 15 % of 55 wood mice and 33 % of 12 house mice had detectable liver SGAR residues. Wood mice with residues occurred
on farms not using rodenticides, reflecting the high mobility of these animals, and four had multiple liver residues, possibly
due to cross-contamination of baits. The winter decline in wood mouse numbers was similar on farms that did and did not use
SGARs, suggesting little long-term impact of SGARs on populations on farms. Our results indicate residual levels of rodenticides
will be ever present in small mammal prey across the agricultural landscape unless all farms in a locality cease application.
The implications for secondary exposure and poisoning of predators are discussed.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-8
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0886-3
Authors
David G. Tosh, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL Northern Ireland, UK
Robbie A. McDonald, Environment and Sustainability Institute, The University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9EZ, UK
Stuart Bearhop, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, The University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9EZ, UK
Neville R. Llewellyn, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP UK
W. Ian Montgomery, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL Northern Ireland, UK
Richard F. Shore, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP UK
Nicotine can cause oxidative damage to organisms; however, some bacteria, for example Pseudomonas sp. HF-1, are resistant to such oxidative stress. In the present study, we analyzed the concentration-dependent metabolic
response of Pseudomonas sp. HF-1 to nicotine stress using 1H NMR spectroscopy coupled with multivariate data analysis. We found that the dominant metabolites in Pseudomonas sp. HF-1 were eight aliphatic organic acids, six amino acids, three sugars and 11 nucleotides. After 18 h of cultivation,
1 g/L nicotine caused significant elevation of sugar (glucose, trehalose and maltose), succinate and nucleic acid metabolites
(cytidine, 5′-CMP, guanine 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate and adenosine 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate), but decrease of glutamate, putrescine,
pyrimidine, 2-propanol, diethyl ether and acetamide levels. Similar metabolomic changes were induced by 2 g/L nicotine, except
that no significant change in trehalose, 5′-UMP levels and diethyl ether were found. However, 3 g/L nicotine led to a significant
elevation in the two sugars (trehalose and maltose) levels and decrease in the levels of glutamate, putrescine, pyrimidine
and 2-propanol. Our findings indicated that nicotine resulted in the enhanced nucleotide biosynthesis, decreased glucose catabolism,
elevated succinate accumulation, severe disturbance in osmoregulation and complex antioxidant strategy. And a further increase
of nicotine level was a critical threshold value that triggered the change of metabolic flow in Pseudomonas sp. HF-1. These findings revealed the comprehensive insights into the metabolic response of nicotine-degrading bacteria to
nicotine-induced oxidative toxicity.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-11
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0885-4
Authors
Yangfang Ye, School of Marine Science, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, 315211 China
Xin Wang, College of Life Science, Zhejiang University, 388 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058 China
Limin Zhang, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, West No. 30 Xiaohongsan, Wuhan, 430071 China
Zhenmei Lu, College of Life Science, Zhejiang University, 388 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058 China
Xiaojun Yan, School of Marine Science, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, 315211 China
Toxicities of atrazine and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) to the tropical freshwater cladoceran Pseudosida ramosa were studied in the laboratory. Acute tests showed that the 48-h LC50 of atrazine was 20.9 mg l−1, while that of SDS was 11.1 mg l−1. P. ramosa showed to be slightly more sensitive than the other species of temperate cladocerans, in the assay conditions specified for
each one. Long-term exposure of P. ramosa individuals to atrazine decreased the 21-day fecundity, the 21-day fertility and rm, at concentrations ranging from 0.8 to 3.2 mg l−1. Furthermore, fecundity and fertility at each brood decreased from the first to the fifth, at concentrations ranging from
0.8 to 3.2 mg l−1 and for the first three broods at the concentration of 0.4 mg l−1. Long-term exposure of female P. ramosa to SDS decreased the 21-day fecundity, the 21-day fertility and rm, at concentrations of 2 and 4 mg l−1. Fecundity and fertility of each brood were reduced from the first to the fifth, at concentrations of 2–4 mg l−1, and for the first three at concentrations of 0.5 and 1 mg l−1. The survival and moulting of the adult females were not affected by either chemical at the concentrations tested. Many water
quality criteria in tropical regions are based on ecotoxicological tests with non-native species and this may lead to errors
in setting the maximum permissible levels of chemicals in water bodies. Therefore, we reiterate here the idea of using native
species in ecotoxicological assessments.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-11
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0888-1
Authors
Emanuela Cristina Freitas, Post-Graduate Program of Ecology and Natural Resources, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luis, km 235, São Carlos, SP CEP 13565-905, Brazil
Odete Rocha, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luis, km 235, São Carlos, SP CEP 13565-905, Brazil
Bensulfuron-methyl (BSM) is a new kind of sulfonylurea herbicide widely used to control broad-leaf weeds in rice paddies.
The aim of this work was to study BSM biodegradation in paddy soils with BSM-degrading bacteria Bacillus megaterium L1 and Brevibacterium sp. BH and its effect on the structures of soil bacterial community. More than 90 % of BSM could be degraded in paddy soils with
0.0355 mg kg−1 BSM concentration. Addition of BSM-degrading bacterial strains Bacillus megaterium L1 into BSM contaminated paddy soil could have the half-life time of BSM compared to treatment without Bacillus megaterium L1 inoculation. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis and principle component analysis indicated that the diversity of
the soil microbial community structure changed along with the addition of BSM, which recovered at the end of the experiment
(5 weeks). Addition of BSM-degrading bacteria Bacillus megaterium L1 enriched the diversity of soil microbial community structure in paddy soils. This study provides information on the biodegradation
of BSM and BSM’s influences on the soil bacteria microbial community structures.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1-10
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0882-7
Authors
Xiao-Yan Lin, Rice Product Quality Inspection and Supervision Testing Center, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, 310006 People’s Republic of China
Yu-Yi Yang, School of Information and Safety Engineering, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073 People’s Republic of China
Yu-Hua Zhao, Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zijingang, Hangzhou, 310058 People’s Republic of China
Qing-Lin Fu, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, 310021 People’s Republic of China
This review paper reports the consensus of a technical workshop hosted by the European network, NanoImpactNet (NIN). The workshop
aimed to review the collective experience of working at the bench with manufactured nanomaterials (MNMs), and to recommend
modifications to existing experimental methods and OECD protocols. Current procedures for cleaning glassware are appropriate
for most MNMs, although interference with electrodes may occur. Maintaining exposure is more difficult with MNMs compared
to conventional chemicals. A metal salt control is recommended for experiments with metallic MNMs that may release free metal
ions. Dispersing agents should be avoided, but if they must be used, then natural or synthetic dispersing agents are possible,
and dispersion controls essential. Time constraints and technology gaps indicate that full characterisation of test media
during ecotoxicity tests is currently not practical. Details of electron microscopy, dark-field microscopy, a range of spectroscopic
methods (EDX, XRD, XANES, EXAFS), light scattering techniques (DLS, SLS) and chromatography are discussed. The development
of user-friendly software to predict particle behaviour in test media according to DLVO theory is in progress, and simple
optical methods are available to estimate the settling behaviour of suspensions during experiments. However, for soil matrices such simple approaches may not be applicable. Alternatively, a Critical Body Residue
approach may be taken in which body concentrations in organisms are related to effects, and toxicity thresholds derived. For
microbial assays, the cell wall is a formidable barrier to MNMs and end points that rely on the test substance penetrating
the cell may be insensitive. Instead assays based on the cell envelope should be developed for MNMs. In algal growth tests,
the abiotic factors that promote particle aggregation in the media (e.g. ionic strength) are also important in providing nutrients,
and manipulation of the media to control the dispersion may also inhibit growth. Controls to quantify shading effects, and
precise details of lighting regimes, shaking or mixing should be reported in algal tests. Photosynthesis may be more sensitive
than traditional growth end points for algae and plants. Tests with invertebrates should consider non-chemical toxicity from
particle adherence to the organisms. The use of semi-static exposure methods with fish can reduce the logistical issues of
waste water disposal and facilitate aspects of animal husbandry relevant to MMNs. There are concerns that the existing bioaccumulation
tests are conceptually flawed for MNMs and that new test(s) are required. In vitro testing strategies, as exemplified by genotoxicity
assays, can be modified for MNMs, but the risk of false negatives in some assays is highlighted. In conclusion, most protocols
will require some modifications and recommendations are made to aid the researcher at the bench.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 933-972
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0862-y
Authors
Richard D. Handy, Ecotoxicology Research and Innovation Centre, School of Biomedical & Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA UK
Nico van den Brink, Alterra, Wageningen UR, Box 47, Wageningen, NL6700AA The Netherlands
Mark Chappell, U.S. Army Engineer Research & Development Center, Vicksburg, MS, USA
Martin Mühling, Institute of Biological Sciences, TU Bergakademie Freiberg, Leipziger Str. 29, 09599 Freiberg, Germany
Renata Behra, Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
Maria Dušinská, Health Effects Laboratory, CEE, NILU (Norwegian Institute for Air Research), P.O. Box 100, 2027 Kjeller, Norway
Peter Simpson, WCA Environment, Brunel House, Volunteer Way, Faringdon, SN7 7YR UK
Jukka Ahtiainen, Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency, P.O. Box 66, 00521 Helsinki, Finland
Awadhesh N. Jha, Ecotoxicology Research and Innovation Centre, School of Biomedical & Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA UK
Jennifer Seiter, U.S. Army Engineer Research & Development Center, Vicksburg, MS, USA
Anthony Bednar, U.S. Army Engineer Research & Development Center, Vicksburg, MS, USA
Alan Kennedy, U.S. Army Engineer Research & Development Center, Vicksburg, MS, USA
Teresa F. Fernandes, School of Life Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS Scotland, UK
Michael Riediker, Institute for Work and Health, IST, Bugnon 21, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
Atrazine (ATR), one of the most widely used herbicides in the world, affects not only target organisms but also the biota
in general. Here, the teratogenic and neurotoxic effects of ATR on Rhinella arenarum (South American toad) embryos, and larvae were evaluated by means of standardized bioassays during acute and chronic exposures.
The herbicide had a significant incidence of malformations, with a Teratogenic Index (TI) of 3.28. The main effects were delayed
development, reduced body size, microcephaly, axial flexures, wavy tail and edema. In addition, delayed development, reduced
development of forelimbs, and edema were recorded at metamorphosis stages. Scanning electron microscopy allowed observing
different degrees of cellular dissociation and persistent cilliar cells in specific regions like the adhesive structure and
tail fin. Results obtained by ATR 24 h pulse exposures at six developmental stages pointed out blastula as the most susceptible
developmental stage both for immediate and delayed adverse effects. A noteworthy recovery capacity from acute toxic effects
was recorded from the neural plate stage onwards. Regarding neurotoxic effects, abnormal, and erratic swimming and spasmodic
contractions were recorded. Both the teratogenic and neurotoxic effects reported in this study demonstrate the importance
of evaluating sublethal effects in non-target organisms as they could imply reduced fitness of individuals and eventually
a population decline. The Hazard Quotients (HQ) for ATR ranged from 0.14 to 10.80, and the fact that some of these values
are above USEPA’s level of concern indicate that ATR is likely a risk to R. arenarum.
Content Type Journal Article
Pages 1251-1259
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0880-9
Authors
Gabriela V. Svartz, Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales y Salud. Fundación PROSAMA, 752 (1405) Paysandú, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Jorge Herkovits, Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales y Salud. Fundación PROSAMA, 752 (1405) Paysandú, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Single biomarkers are rarely accurate. Even suites of biomarkers can give conflicting results. Ideally potent combinations
of variables are isolated which accurately identify specific analytes and their level of toxicity. The search for such combinations
can be done by reducing the thousands of candidate variables to the small number necessary for treatment classification. When
the key variables are recognized by machine learning (ML) the results are quite surprising, given the apparent failure of
other searching methods to produce good diagnostics. Proteins seem especially useful for portable field tests of a variety
of adverse conditions. This review shows how ML, in particular artificial neural networks, can find potent biomarkers embedded
in any type of expression data, mainly proteins in this article. A computer does multiple iterations to produce sets of proteins
which systematically identify (to near 100% accuracy) the treatment classes of interest. Whether these proteins are useful
in actual diagnoses is tested by presenting the computer model with unknown classes. Finding the biomarkers is getting easier
but there still must be confirmation, by multivariable statistics and with field studies.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Review Article
Pages 631-636
DOI 10.1007/s10646-011-0848-1
Authors
Brian Patrick Bradley, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA
A large body of work has established a link between endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) and a number of abnormalities in
fishes. However, most EDC studies use several standard laboratory denizens to assess impacts, so assumptions about sensitivity
are primarily based on these few species. Additionally, existing methods rely on obtaining sufficient plasma to measure EDC
biomarkers. Our objectives were (a) to establish a new model species for estuarine fishes, (b) to evaluate endocrine impacts
with a highly sensitive and specific biomarker, and (c) to develop a method for the analysis of this biomarker in small fish
that do not possess sufficient blood plasma for protein measurement. As such, we created a polyclonal antibody (Ab) to the
estrogen-responsive proteins chorion (Ch) and choriogenin (Chg) in Menidia beryllina, found throughout coastal North America and already utilized in EPA Whole Effluent Testing. We then validated the Ab by using
it to measure the response to aqueous ethinylestradiol (EE2) through the development an ELISA using Menidia whole body homogenate (WBH). Sensitivity of the Ab to Menidia WBH is greater than that of the commercially available option. ELISA sensitivity, with a detection limit of 5 ng/ml and a
working range of 22.6–1370.9 ng/ml, is comparable to ELISAs developed to measure plasma Chg. To our knowledge this is the
first ELISA method developed for the detection of Chg using WBH. Including additional model species and methods allowing the
evaluation of alternative sample matrices will contribute to an enhanced understanding of inter-species differences in EDC
response.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Technical Note
Pages 1272-1280
DOI 10.1007/s10646-012-0879-2
Authors
Susanne M. Brander, Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
Bryan J. Cole, Bodega Marine Laboratory, University of California, Davis, P.O. Box 247, Bodega Bay, CA 94923, USA
Gary N. Cherr, Departments of Environmental Toxicology and Nutrition, Bodega Marine Laboratory, University of California, Davis, P.O. Box 247, Bodega Bay, CA 94923, USA
In multiple stress situations, the co-occurrence of environmental and chemical factors can influence organisms’ ability to
cope with toxicity. In this context, the influence of light adaptation on the response of freshwater biofilms to sudden light
changes or to herbicides exposure was investigated by determining various parameters: diatom community composition, photosynthetic
parameters, chlorophyll a content, antioxidant enzyme activities. Biofilms were grown in microcosms under sub-optimal, saturating, and high light intensities
and showed already described characteristics of shade/light adaptation (community structure, photosynthetic adaptation, etc.).
Light history modulated antioxidant and photosynthetic responses of biofilms to the stress caused by short-term exposure to
sudden light changes or to herbicides. First biofilms adapted to sub-optimal light intensity (shade-adapted) were found to
be more sensitive to an increase in light intensity than high-light adapted ones to a reduction in light intensity. Second,
while light history influenced biofilms’ response to glyphosate, it had little influence on biofilms’ response to copper and
none on its response to oxyfluorfen. Indeed glyphosate exposure led to a stronger decrease in photosynthetic efficiency of
shade-adapted biofilms (EC50 = 11.7 mg L−1) than of high-light adapted communities (EC50 = 35.6 mg L−1). Copper exposure led to an activation of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in biofilms adapted to sub-optimal and saturating light
intensity while the protein content decreased in all biofilms exposed to copper. Oxyfluorfen toxicity was independent of light
history provoking an increase in APX activity. In conclusion this study showed that both previous exposure to contaminants
and physical habitat characteristics might influence community tolerance to disturbances strongly.
The Asian clam Corbicula fluminea is an invasive bivalve that has recently spread in Europe and currently represents a large portion of the aquatic biomass in specific areas. Because of the impacts that the species may have in invaded ecosystems, increased knowledge on the physiologic features of the species life-cycle under different environmental scenarios (e.g., contamination events) is critical to understand the dynamics of the invasion and resulting ecosystem imbalance. The presence of pharmaceutical residues in the aquatic environment has recently received great attention since high levels of contamination have been found, not only in sewage treatment plant effluents, but also in open waters. The present article reports toxicological biochemical effects of paracetamol to Corbicula fluminea following short- and long-term exposures. Oxidative stress parameters were specially focused namely catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), and glutathione reductase (GRed). The effect of tested substances on lipid peroxidation was also investigated. Paracetamol did not induce alterations on CAT activity, caused a significant decrease of GSTs activity following short- and long-term exposure (LOEC values of 532.78 mg L−1 and 30.98 μg L−1, respectively), and was responsible for a significant and dose-dependent decrease of GRed activity in short- and long-term exposures. These results indicate that exposure to paracetamol can provoke significant alterations on the cellular redox status of C. fluminea. 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2011.
The following article from Environmental Toxicology, ‘Long-term Copper Toxicity in Apple Trees (Malus pumila Mill) and Bioaccumulation in Fruits’ by Bai-Ye Sun, Shi- Hong Kan, Yan-Zong Zhang, Jun Wu, Shi-Huai Deng, Chun-Sheng Liu and Gang Yang, published online on January 15, 2010 in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com; DOI: 10.1002/tox.20565), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor in Chief, Dr. Paul Tchounwou, and Wiley Periodicals, Inc. The retraction has been agreed at the request of the authors due to overlap with ‘Copper Toxicity and Bioaccumulation in Chinese Cabbage (Brassica pekinensis Rupr.)’ by Zhi-Ting Xiong and Hai Wang, published in Environmental Toxicology, Volume 20, pages 188–194, 2005.
