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Filter-feeder organisms such as oyster and mussels are exposed to particles like microplastics (MPs). Although widely used to monitor MPs contamination, little is known about their performance as sentinels, which are biological monitors accumulating contaminants without significant adverse effects. This study comparatively evaluated the quantitative and qualitative accumulation of MPs by oysters (Crassostrea brasiliana) and mussels (Perna perna) along a gradient of contamination in a highly urbanized estuarine system of Brazil. In the most contaminated site, both species presented the worst status of nutrition and health, and also one of the highest MPs levels reported for molluscs to date (up to 44.1 particles·g−1). Despite some inter-specific differences, oysters and mussels were suitable and showed an equivalent performance as sentinels, reflecting the gradient condition demonstrated for other contaminants in the region. The similarity in MPs accumulation was also observed for qualitative aspects (polymer composition, sizes, shapes and colors). Particles were mostly

Microplastics (MPs) become ubiquitous contaminants in Marine Protected Areas (MPA) that have been planned as a conservation strategy. The present study provides a comprehensive overview of the occurrence, abundance, and distribution of MPs potentially affecting MPA worldwide. Data on MP occurrence and levels in sediment and biota samples were collected from recent peer-reviewed literature and screened using a GIS-based approach overlapping MP records with MPA boundaries. MPs were found in 186 MPAs, with levels ranging from 0 to 9187.5 items/kg in sediment and up to 17,461.9 items/kg in organisms. Peaked MPs concentrations occurred within multiple-use areas, and no-take MPAs were also affected. About half of MP levels found within MPA fell into the higher concentration quartiles, suggesting potential impacts on these areas. In general, benthic species were likely more affected than pelagic ones due to the higher concentrations of MP reported in the tissues of benthic species. Alarmingly, MPs were found in tissues of two threatened species on the IUCN Red List. The findings denote urgent concerns about the effectiveness of the global system of protected areas and their proposed conservation goals.

Cigarette butts (CBs) comprise one of the most relevant categories of marine litter worldwide. This study was structured as a case study simultaneously assessing (i) the occurrence of CBs in a highly urbanized coastal area, (ii) their partitioning in two environmental compartments (water column and sediments) by laboratory settling tests, and (iii) the toxicity produced by the CBs leachates (measured as copepod reproduction). Marine litter was sampled in beaches of the city of Santos (SW Brazil) and CBs were collected for analysis. The characterization showed that CBs were one of the most prevalent items (51.5% in summer and 34.4% in winter) and 22 cigarettes brands were identified at different stages of decomposition. Laboratory settling tests showed that CBs remain in the water column between 3 and 20 days, subsequently reaching the sediments. The toxicity results indicated that CBs the leachates extracted from a small amount of CBs was sufficient to affect copepod reproduction (0.1 and 0.01 CBs L−1). Furthermore, the approaches adopted by the present study can serve as a preliminary assessment to estimate local impacts resulting from inadequate disposal of cigarette butts in coastal areas around the world.

As apex predators, marine mammals play a key role in maintaining community structure and functioning in marine ecosystems. Hence, a decline in marine mammal populations may have negative effects on...

Dredging and tailings disposal can mobilize mercury (Hg) accumulated in bottom sediments, increasing the exposure of the aquatic biota. In the Mucuripe Harbor, NE, Brazil, dredging is performed regularly, but the impact on Hg mobilization is unknown. This paper presents results from the monitoring of a dredging operation to characterize and quantify an eventual Hg mobilization. The results showed that remobilization is significant and is associated with suspended solids. Further deposition of the Hg-enriched, remobilized, suspended solids increased Hg concentrations by a factor of 1.2 and 2.0 in harbor and shelf sediments, respectively. Maximum concentrations in harbor and shelf sediments reached 79.9 ng.g-1 and 32.4 ng.g-1 (20 and 9 higher than the regional background, respectively). The progressive increase in Hg concentrations may result in higher exposure to the local biota.Keywords: metals, mobilization, contamination, coastal sediments.

Despite the relatively rich literature on the omnipresence of microplastics in marine environments, the current status and ecological impacts of microplastics on global Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are still unknown. Their ubiquitous occurrence, increasing volume, and ecotoxicological effects have made microplastic an emerging marine pollutant. Given the critical conservation roles of MPAs that aim to protect vulnerable marine species, biodiversity, and resources, it is essential to have a comprehensive overview of the occurrence, abundance, distribution, and characteristics of microplastics in MPAs including their buffer zones. Here, extensive data were collected and screened based on 1565 peer-reviewed literature from 2017 to 2020, and a GIS-based approach was applied to improve the outcomes by considering boundary limits. Microplastics in seawater samples were verified within the boundaries of 52 MPAs; after including the buffer zones, 1/3 more (68 MPAs) were identified as contaminated by microplastics. A large range of microplastic levels in MPAs was summarized based on water volume (0-809,000 items/m

Accidents involving fuels and oil spills are among the main sources of hydrocarbons to the marine ecosystems and often damage the biota. Diesel and bunker oil are two examples of fuels with broad application that release hydrocarbons to the aquatic environment and little is known about their toxicity on tropical organisms. This study aimed to assess the toxicity of the water-soluble fraction (WSF) of diesel and bunker oils to neotropical marine invertebrates. Commercial fuels were purchased for WSF extraction, analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and acute and chronic toxicity determined. The WSF analyzed contained varied levels of TPH and PAHs mixtures, especially low molecular weight PAHs; bunker WSF presented higher amounts of TPH and PAHs. Both WSFs tested produced significant mortality of the brine shrimp Artemia salina, affected the reproduction rate of the copepod Nitokra sp, and impaired the embryo-larval development of the mussel Perna perna and of the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus. In general WSF from diesel was more toxic to the organisms tested, but bunker WSF was more toxic to embryos of L. variegatus. Toxicity started from concentrations of 3% WSF, which can be environmentally relevant after an oil spill, indicating that marine biota may be adversely affected in short term.

We analyzed per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) used to extinguish a major fire in a petrochemical terminal from the Port of Santos (Brazil). Eight AFFFs from seven known commercial brands and one unknown sample (AFFF-1 to AFFF-8) were evaluated. 17 PFAS were identified and quantified using high performance liquid chromatography (LC/MS). The concentrations of Σ17 PFAS in the AFFFs ranged from 500 to 9000 ng/g, with prevalence of short chain PFAS (~85 %), followed by long chain PFAS. Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), included in the global treaty of the Stockholm Convention, were also detected. We estimated that at least 635.96 g of PFAS were introduced in the estuary, representing a massive input of these substances. This investigation reports the PFAS composition of AFFFs used in firefighting in the GRULAC Region (Group of Latin American and Caribbean countries).

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T17:16:00Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-09-01 Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ) The present study evaluated the ecological risk of metal contamination in sediments of Guanabara Bay (GB) by combining multiple lines of evidence (LOEs). Chemical analysis and a set of whole-sediment toxicity assays were conducted with Tiburonella viscana, Kalliapseudes schubartii, Anomalocardia flexuosa, and Nitocra sp. Results were integrated by multivariate analysis and qualitative methods. Additionally, a whole-sediment Toxicity Identification Evaluation technique (TIE) was applied to identify the chemical groups responsible for the effects. Sediments from harbor and industrial areas exhibited toxicity linked to moderate to high concentrations of Zn, Pb, Cu and Cr. The TIE technique confirmed such effects, but it also indicates the contribution of ammonia and organic compounds to the observed toxicity. Our results demonstrate that the combination of multiple LOEs improves the effectiveness of environmental risk assessment of chemical stressors and management of coastal ecosystems in tropical regions. São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n Fluminense Federal University (UFF) Program of Geochemistry Department of Geochemistry West Pará State Federal University (UFOPA) Engineering and Geosciences Institute Mineral Analysis Coordination Center of Mineral Technology (CETEM), Av. Pedro Calmon, 900, Cidade Universitária Rio de Janeiro Federal University (UFRJ) Health Science Center, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, Cidade Universitária São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n CAPES: 001 FAPESP: 13/15482-0 FAPESP: 2015/13143-0 CNPq: 308533/2018-6 CNPq: 311609/2014-7 CNPq: 455280/2014-2

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-12T01:44:50Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-01-01 The Santos Estuarine System (SES) is a complex of bays, islands, estuarine channels, and rivers located on the Southeast coast of Brazil, in which multiple contaminant sources are situated in close proximity to mangroves and other protected areas. In this study, the composition and structure of the macrobenthic communities of SES were described and ninetynine species were identified, with the predominance of polychaetes and bivalve mollusks. The benthic assemblages also showed strong signs of stress, as indicated by the low abundance, richness and diversity, and the dominance of opportunistic species. Integrated analysis including sediment characteristics related to natural and anthropogenic factors (e.g., sediment chemistry, and toxicity) indicated that benthic fauna from the inner portions of the SES and vicinities of the SSOS diffusers as Santos Bay were affected. Some locations at the mouths of Santos and Sao Vicente estuaries exhibited moderate disturbance. In other sites from the mouth of São Vicente and Bertioga channels, and Santos Bay, the benthic fauna were considered not degraded. Our results suggest that a combination of both environmental factors and contaminants were responsible for the benthic community structure. UNESP Campus do Litoral Paulista, Praça Infante Dom Henriquem s/n. Instituto Oceanográfico da USP, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191 BR Ambiental, Rua Corinto, 739 Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas Nucleares, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2242 Sección Oceanología Facultad de Ciencias - UdelaR, Iguá 4225 UNESP Campus do Litoral Paulista, Praça Infante Dom Henriquem s/n.

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T16:13:55Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-06-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) represent a tool for conservation that is intended to protect marine and estuarine habitats, biodiversity, and ecological processes. Many MPAs, some of which include estuarine zones, are affected by contamination sources; the discharge of chemicals into aquatic systems results in sediment contamination, risks to benthic systems, and consequent negative effects on ecological function. This study evaluated sediment quality in estuaries located within the Mosaic of Marine Protected Areas of São Paulo State, Brazil (MMPASP) in austral winter and summer: the Verde River (RV), the Una do Prelado River (BU), the Guaraú River (GU), the Preto River (RP), and the Itanhaém River (ITA). Data on sediment chemistry (major and trace metals, as well as hydrocarbons) and whole-sediment toxicity in copepods and amphipods were associated with ecological indices of macrobenthic infaunal organisms in a weight-of-evidence approach meant to estimate the effects at the community level. Results revealed low-to-moderate levels of contamination, with higher concentrations detected at sites influenced by domestic effluent discharges (RP, ITA). Site-specific chemical contamination guidelines were in accordance with biological responses than threshold levels from international benchmarks, indicating a failure of these international criteria to predict effects. Sediments were toxic, and benthic descriptors corroborated these findings. The results reflected a pattern of environmental quality that ranged from relatively good conditions (RV, BU, GU) to poor environmental quality (RP, ITA). We concluded that benthic environments in the estuaries of the Central Shore Marine Protected Area (APAMLC) exhibit a good ecological status in general, but some sites are directly impacted by human activities and exhibit contamination levels associated with biological effects, thereby showing that some portions of these MPAs may be damaged by contamination. Environmental assessments based on the sediment quality triad (SQT) method provide suitable and reliable information on pollution within MPAs and can assist in establishing additional policies to control pollution sources and achieve conservation goals. Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Pça. Infante D. Henrique s/n° 11330-900, São Vicente Centro de Estudos do Mar Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Av. Beira Mar, s/n° 83255-976, Pontal do Paraná Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Pça. Infante D. Henrique s/n° 11330-900, São Vicente FAPESP: 2013/15482-0 CNPq: 306468/2017-4 CNPq: 311609/2014-7 CNPq: 455280/2014-2

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T16:08:06Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-03-15 Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Anthropogenic molecular markers were used to assess chemicals inputs and ecological risks associated from multiple sources to sediments in one of the largest tropical mangrove forests of South America, with a particular focus on lesser studied compounds resulting from rural activities. Total concentrations ranged from 23.4 to 228.2 ng g−1 for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (∑PAHs), 750.4 to 5912.5 ng g−1 for aliphatic hydrocarbons (∑AHs), 32.4 to 696.6 ng g−1 for pesticides (∑pesticides), 23.1 to 2109.7 ng g−1 for coprostanol and sterols (∑sterols), 139.3 to 580.2 ng g−1 for naturals hormones (∑natural hormones) and 334.1 to 823.4 ng g−1 for synthetics hormones (∑synthetic hormones). The PAHs and AHs used as traditional anthropogenic markers showed a mixture between natural and anthropogenic sources, related mainly to inputs from higher plants, phytoplankton and both, biomass and petroleum combustion. Rural activities linked to agricultural pest control are the predominant source of pesticides, although minor inputs from pesticides used in urban public health campaigns and household activities were also detected. Synthetic hormones levels are two to three orders of magnitude greater than natural hormones levels and no correlations were observed between the main sewage markers and synthetic hormone concentrations, rural activities such as animal husbandry, which use drugs in management, may be the predominant anthropogenic sources of these compounds in the region. Traditional markers failed to detect ecological risks in rural areas, where synthetic substances (e.g. pesticides and hormones) are widely used and introduced in the environment. Instituto Oceanográfico Universidade de São Paulo, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191 Instituto de Ciências do Mar Universidade Federal do Ceará, Av. Abolição, 3207 Departamento de Química Analítica e Físico-Química Universidade Federal do Ceará Centro de Investigação em Ecotoxicologia Aquática e Poluição (NEPEA) São Paulo State University (UNESP Campus do Litoral Paulista), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n. Department of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, 266 Woods Hole road Centro de Investigação em Ecotoxicologia Aquática e Poluição (NEPEA) São Paulo State University (UNESP Campus do Litoral Paulista), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n. Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico: 150.01.00/09 CNPq: 480583/2012-9 CNPq: 484171/2010-0

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T16:15:36Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-03-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico The present study assessed biochemical responses as sublethal endpoints in the polychaete Armandia agilis exposed to contaminated sediments to in order to assess its potential use as a test organism. Sediment samples from several locations at a dredging site were obtained and used in whole-sediment exposures. Samples were tested with A. agilis to determine the 10-day toxicity of the 100% sample and the enzymatic activity of catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) biochemical measurements made in whole-body homogenates of a subset of the surviving organisms. Biochemical responses reported in A. agilis were not statistically different from the reference site sediment, however, the integrated analysis demonstrated that contaminants bound to sediment samples influenced the sublethal effects. Instituto de Ciências do Mar Universidade Federal do Ceará (UFC) Meireles – Fortaleza, Av. da Abolição Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n. São Vicente Instituto Oceanográfico Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Praça do Oceanográfico, 191. São Paulo Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n. São Vicente FAPESP: #2010/07605-7 CNPq: #311609/2014-7 CNPq: #552299/2010-3 CNPq: 142002/2010-0 Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico: 1571/07 CNPq: 573.601/2008-9 Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico: BMD-0008-00058.01.18/09

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-25T10:47:05Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-02-01 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico Sediment dredging impacts coastal environments by promoting the resuspension of fine particles and remobilization of contaminants that may trigger toxic effects. In this study, we evaluated the sediment quality in harbor areas of Mucuripe bay, a semi-arid ecosystem located in Ceará state (Brazil), which is subject to dredging activities. A sampling survey was conducted right after dredging operations and data compared to another survey performed prior dredging. Sediments were analyzed for fine particles, organic carbon, nutrients, metals, hydrocarbons, and tributyltin (TBT). Toxicity of whole-sediment and liquid phase exposures were also determined. The concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, and Zn decreased after dredging, which was confirmed by the geoaccumulation index. Levels of TBT dropped while phosphorus, aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons increased. Toxic effects persisted, indicating a post-dredging recontamination combined with other sources such as urban runoff, wastewater discharges, harbor activities, and antifouling particles. Data from Mucuripe and Pecém harbors were compiled and site-specific sediment quality values (SQVs) were developed by using multivariate methods. The threshold values proposed by our study were lower and more effective to predict toxicity compared to international guidelines, indicating levels of contamination for this tropical region in which toxic effects may occur. Considering the large geographic area with different sediment characteristics of the Brazilian coast, this study represents a significant contribution to sediment toxicity assessment of dredging activities in semi-arid environments. Instituto de Ciências Do Mar Universidade Federal Do Ceará, Fortaleza Núcleo de Estudos Em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática UNESP, São Vicente Instituto Do Mar Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Santos Instituto de Oceanografia Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande, Rio Grande Instituto Oceanográfico Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo Núcleo de Estudos Em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática UNESP, São Vicente CNPq: 142002/2010–0 Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico: 1571/07 CNPq: 302713/2018–2 CNPq: 311609/2014–7 CNPq: 312341/2013–0 CNPq: 314202/2018–8 CNPq: 552299/2010–3 CNPq: 573.601/2008–9 Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico: BMD-0008-00058.01.18/09 CNPq: INCT-TMCOcean

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-29T08:35:01Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-01-01 Accidents involving fuels and oil spills are among the main sources of hydrocarbons to the marine ecosystems and often damage the biota. Diesel and bunker oil are two examples of fuels with broad application that release hydrocarbons to the aquatic environment and little is known about their toxicity on tropical organisms. This study aimed to assess the toxicity of the water-soluble fraction (WSF) of diesel and bunker oils to neotropical marine invertebrates. Commercial fuels were purchased for WSF extraction, analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and acute and chronic toxicity determined. The WSF analyzed contained varied levels of TPH and PAHs mixtures, especially low molecular weight PAHs; bunker WSF presented higher amounts of TPH and PAHs. Both WSFs tested produced significant mortality of the brine shrimp Artemia salina, affected the reproduction rate of the copepod Nitokra sp, and impaired the embryo-larval development of the mussel Perna perna and of the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus. In general WSF from diesel was more toxic to the organisms tested, but bunker WSF was more toxic to embryos of L. variegatus. Toxicity started from concentrations of 3% WSF, which can be environmentally relevant after an oil spill, indicating that marine biota may be adversely affected in short term. Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática (NEPEA) Câmpus do Litoral Paulista da Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) Instituto Oceanográfico Universidade de São Paulo (IO-USP) Instituto do Mar Universidade Federal de São Paulo (IMar/UNIFESP) Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática (NEPEA) Câmpus do Litoral Paulista da Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP)

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-25T10:32:42Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-09-01 Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Recent studies have shown that the effectiveness of establishing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) is threatened by toxic effects of contaminants. São Paulo is the most economically developed state of Brazil, and its coast is protected by a system of MPAs, including the North Shore Marine Protected Area (NSMPA). The present study provides a first assessment of sediment quality in NSMPA and two reference sites. Concentrations of arsenic (As), metals (Al, Fe, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and its sources were determined. Comparisons with sediment quality guidelines indicated low contamination, as confirmed by the Geoaccumulation Index, which classified the results as background levels. Whole-sediment exposures of the amphipod Tiburonella viscana were performed to estimate possible acute effects, but samples exhibited no toxicity. The results presented in this study represent a baseline for further monitoring programs of MPAs, supporting conservation actions of management plans. São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n Institute of Marine Sciences (LABOMAR) Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Av. da Abolição, 3207 Oceanographic Institute (IOUSP) University of São Paulo (USP), Praça do Oceanográfico, 191 Department of Chemistry Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Av. Humberto Monte s/n Department of Geochemistry Fluminense Federal University (UFF) São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n CAPES: 001 FAPESP: 2013/15482-0 CNPq: 308533/2018-6 CNPq: 311609/2014-7 CNPq: 455280/2014-2

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the occurrence and environmental partition of urban pesticides and the dependence of these compounds on the physicochemical properties of the sediment and water of the Ceará River (fluvial and mangrove regions) located on the tropical coast of northeast Brazil. Surface sediment and water were collected from each site. Dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, conductivity, depth, turbidity, and salinity were measured in situ. Bifenthrin, deltamethrin, permethrin, imiprothrin, and malathion were analysed in both environmental matrices. An ecological risk assessment was performed using the risk quotient (RQ) calculated from responses of aquatic organisms to the target compounds compiled in the United States Environmental Protection Agency ECOTOXicology knowledgebase (ECOTOX). The highest concentrations were found for the urban pesticides cypermethrin, permethrin, and deltamethrin, ranging from 37.39 to 367.60, 44.49 to 226.45 ng L−1, and 60.99 to 170.56 ng L−1 in water and 270.99 to 623.99, 27.00 to 307.00 ng g−1 and 0.27 to 443.48 ng g−1, in sediment in dry weight, respectively. Malathion, cypermethrin, cyfluthrin, and deltamethrin are related to chemical control performed for combatting vectors of diseases. The main sources of permethrin and imiprothrin are household insecticides. Bifenthrin may be related to its use by specialised pest control services. The study of toxic effects and the ecological risk assessment revealed cyfluthrin to be extremely toxic to marine and estuarine organisms, followed by deltamethrin, bifenthrin, cypermethrin, and permethrin, whereas imiprothrin and malathion were classified as toxic and non-toxic, respectively. The urban pesticides investigated in this study were on the same level of magnitude as those found in agricultural areas, except for malathion and imiprothrin, the levels of which were higher due to the fact that these compounds are commonly used in urban pest control.

The analysis of hydrocarbons in terms of individual compounds is relevant to understand the origin and source of these substances, as well as its distribution in environmental compartments, including sediments and biota. Hydrocarbons concentrations were determined in sediments and in whole-body soft tissues of the tropical clam Anomalocardia flexuosa in sediment toxicity testing using samples of Mucuripe bay (Ceara State, NE Brazil) collected in 2011 during dredging events [1] . Data of target compounds included aliphatic (AHs) and aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and linear alkylbenzenes (LABs). AHs compounds were determined on gas chromatography with flame ionization detector (GC-FID), while PAHs and LABs were determined on gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC/MS) in a selected ion mode (SIM). The potential of this dataset is baseline information on hydrocarbons contamination in sediments from a semi-arid region and the bioaccumulation of organic contaminants in marine organisms that can be used as models in ecotoxicological studies.

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-12T01:24:29Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-05-01 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia Few test organisms are employed for sediment toxicity assessments in Tropical regions, including Brazil. We assessed the ability of the clam Anomalocardia flexuosa to respond to contamination in sediment bioassays using dredging materials of a semi-arid region (Ceará State, NE Brazil), with attention to sublethal responses. Sediments were collected during and after dredging (survey 1 and 2, respectively) and animals exposed in laboratory over 28 days, with responses measured at 7 days. Bioaccumulation of contaminants was determined in whole-body soft tissues as a metric of bioavailability, and biomarkers' changes were monitored in terms of enzymes of phase I and II metabolism, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and antioxidant responses, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and DNA damage (strand breaks). Clams accumulated aliphatic (AHs) and aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and linear alkylbenzenes (LABs) compared to control conditions (day 0), with increased amounts of As, Cd, Cu, and Zn observed in some samples. The enzyme glutathione S-transferase was enhanced in animals exposed to samples, indicating activation of phase II metabolism. Changes observed in glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), LPO and strand breaks were related to oxidative stress. AChE enzymatic activity also changed, as an indicator of neurotoxicity caused by sediment exposure. The computed integrated biomarker response index (IBR) ranked sites according to the contamination status and proximity to its sources. Correlations found for biomarkers and bioaccumulation of hydrocarbons indicated the influence of harbor activities, effluent discharges, and urban runoff on the sediment pollution of Mucuripe Bay. Data also showed that SQGs are unable to predict bioaccumulation and subchronic effects. Based on our results we consider that biomarkers responses in A. flexuosa are important endpoints to be applied in sediment toxicity bioassays in tropical regions. Bioaccumulation; Environmental monitoring; Linear alkylbenzenes; Marine pollution; Metals; Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; Sublethal effects; Tropical environments; Toxicity testing; Weight of evidence; Ecological health; Marine biology; Environmental assessment; Environmental hazard; Environmental health; Environmental impact assessment; Environmental pollution; Environmental risk assessment; Environmental toxicology; Toxicology Instituto de Ciências do Mar Universidade Federal do Ceará Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática UNESP Instituto Oceanográfico Universidade de São Paulo Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática UNESP CNPq: 142002/2010-0 CNPq: 311609/2014-7 CNPq: 552299/2010-3 CNPq: 573.601/2008-9 Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia: BMD-0008-00058.01.18/09

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T17:55:04Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2018-10-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Research Allocation Program of the Agricultural Experiment Station (University of California Riverside) The triazine-based herbicide irgarol is widely used in antifouling systems as an algicide and has been detected recently in multiple coastal environments. Studies evaluating sub-lethal responses of fish following exposure to irgarol are limited. Moreover, impacts of climate change on fish endocrinology may also contribute to the sublethal toxicity of irgarol. We assessed the effects of irgarol on thyroid endpoints in juveniles of Menidia beryllina under two different treatments of salinity (10 and 20 parts per thousand) and two temperatures (10 and 20 degrees C). Condition factor coefficients (K) of animals were significantly affected by 0.1 to 10 mu g/L of irgarol at the higher temperature. Levels of T3 were changed in whole body homogenates from both temperatures at 10%0 following exposure to 1 to 10 mu g/L T4 levels were altered only at 10 degrees C when animals were treated with 1 to 10 mu g/L (10 parts per thousand), and in 0.1 and 10 mu g/L (20 parts per thousand). Increased transcripts of deiodinase enzymes at 10 degrees C may be impacted by salinity and alter thyroid hormone homeostasis. Impact on gene expression of thyroid (alpha and beta) and growth hormone receptors were also determined. Our results highlight the relevance of environmental variable that may impact the ecological risk of irgarol in estuarine systems. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Sao Paulo State Univ, Inst Biosci, BR-11330900 Sao Vicente, SP, Brazil Univ Calif Riverside, Dept Environm Sci, Riverside, CA 92521 USA Sao Paulo State Univ, Inst Biosci, BR-11330900 Sao Vicente, SP, Brazil FAPESP: 2016/01091-8

Fire suppressors are widely used in firefighting and their chemical composition may present a mixture of perfluorochlorinated surfactants (PFCs), including the perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) which has been internationally banned due to its classification as a persistent organic pollutant (POP). PFCs have been found in environmental matrices and soft tissues of organisms, but the potential effect of such compounds on marine organisms has been overlooked. Here, it was evaluated whether the chronic exposures (i.e., seven days) to the fire suppressors Ageofoam, Cold Fire, Kidde and Argus could affect the reproduction of the copepod Nitocra sp. The tested concentrations consisted of those recommended on the products’ manuals and those ranging between 0.0001% and 1%. For each compound, the effective concentrations to 50% exposed organisms (EC50) and the lowest observed effect concentrations (LOEC) were estimated. All the fire suppressors exhibited high toxicity, causing fecundity reduction. At the recommended dilutions, 100% lethality occurred for all compounds. The EC50 values ranged from 0.00817% - Ageofoam - to 0.03081% - Argus. The LOECs ranged from 0.001% - Ageofoam - to 0.1% - Argus and Kidde; and were much lower than the concentrations recommended for commercial use. The fire suppressors showed high toxicity to the copepod, reducing the reproduction rates, even in very low concentrations, suggesting that the release of such substances in the estuary caused severe effects to the environment. This assessment provides subsides to the environmental regulation of fire suppressors in Brazil, because these compounds do not have national regulations for their use and disposal. RESUMEN Los supresores de incendios son usados ampliamente en la lucha contra incendios y su composición química puede presentar una mezcla de tensioactivos perfluoroclorados (PFC), incluido el sulfonato de perfluorooctano (PFOS) que ha sido prohibidos internacionalmente debido a su clasificación como un contaminante orgánico persistente (POP). Se han encontrado PFC en matrices ambientales y tejidos blandos de organismos, pero se ha pasado por alto el efecto potencial de tales compuestos en los organismos marinos. Aquí, se evaluó si las exposiciones crónicas (es decir, siete días) a los supresores de fuego Ageofoam, Cold Fire, Kidde y Argus podrían afectar la reproducción del copépodo Nitocra sp. Las concentraciones probadas consistieron en las recomendadas en los manuales de los productos las cuales oscilan entre 0.0001% y 1%. Para cada compuesto, se estimaron las concentraciones efectivas al 50% de organismos expuestos (CE50) y el efecto de las concentraciones más bajas observadas (LOEC). Todos los supresores de incendios exhibieron alta toxicidad, causando una reducción de la fecundidad. A las diluciones recomendadas, se produjo un 100% de letalidad para todos los compuestos. Los valores de CE50 variaron de 0.00817% - Ageofoam - a 0.03081% - Argus. Los LOEC variaron de 0.001% - Ageofoam - a 0.1% - Argus y Kidde; y fueron mucho más bajas que las concentraciones recomendadas para uso comercial. Los supresores de incendio mostraron una alta toxicidad para el copépodo, reduciendo las tasas de reproducción, incluso en concentraciones muy bajas, lo que sugiere que la liberación de tales sustancias en el estuario causó graves efectos en el medio ambiente. Esta evaluación proporciona insumos a la regulación ambiental de los supresores de incendios en Brasil, porque estos compuestos no tienen regulaciones nacionales para su uso y eliminación.

Sediments constitute a key compartment of coastal and marine ecosystems. They also constitute the ultimate sink for most of the chemical substances and a source of contamination to the benthic fauna. In this study, we aimed to develop a protocol for acute toxicity tests using the polychaete Armandia agilis as a model species. To achieve that, we evaluated the species tolerance to the salinity of overlying water (in the presence and absence of sediment), the tolerance to sediments with different particle sizes, the sensitivity to reference substances (potassium dichromate – K2Cr2O7, zinc sulfate – ZnSO4; and Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate - SDS), and the responses to clean and contaminated sediments. The species survives in several latitudes on the American coast (North Carolina, Gulf of Mexico, and South-Southeast of Brazil) in different haline conditions (above 20) in typically sandy textures. In Ilhabela (SE Brazil), the species was available throughout the year. The LC50-48h values calculated to the K2Cr2O7, ZnSO4, and SDS, were 20.94 (33.38-14.04); 4.25 (7.66-2.98); 4.90 (6.59-3.84) mg L-1 respectively; thus A. agilis can be considered as sensitive as other benthic organisms. The responses of A. agilis to environmental sediments were similar to those exhibited by the amphipod Tiburonella viscana, showing that this polychaete is responsive to contaminated sediments. Armandia agilis can be considered a promising organism to be used in sediment toxicity tests.

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T16:45:43Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-01-01 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico In this study, the performance of two native bivalves in responding to sediment resuspension was investigated during dredging operations of a semi-arid bay (Mucuripe, NE Brazil). The clam Anomalocardia flexuosa and the oyster Crassostrea rhizophorae were selected and caged in two sites influenced by the dredging plume. We assessed the bioaccumulation of metals and hydrocarbons in both species as biomarkers of exposure and then, biomarkers’ responses were assessed in gills and digestive glands over a 28 days period, at 7 days intervals: the activities of phase I and II, and antioxidant enzymes, levels of lipid peroxidation and DNA strand breaks. Both transplanted bivalves accumulated Cu, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and linear alkylbenzenes (LABs) in their whole-body tissues, whereas Ni, Pb and Zn accumulation was species-dependent. The exposure time set at day 28 was considered appropriate. Biomarkers exhibited time-related responses in both species, but gills exhibited a more sensitive response, indicating a function of barrier against the uptake of chemicals and also a relevant tissue to be targeted. In clams, Phase I and II enzymes (ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase and glutathione S-transferase) were induced during the period of intense dredging, while in oysters they were activated at the end of operations. Induction of antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase) and elevated levels DNA damage were observed in both exposure surveys. Clams and oysters were sensitive and responded to the exposure of resuspended sediments and the biomarkers of effects were associated with bioaccumulation of contaminants in the integrated analysis. These results indicate that The clam A. flexuosa and the oyster C. rhizophorae are suitable models to be used in monitoring programs or field exposure experiments in tropical regions. Instituto de Ciências do Mar Universidade Federal do Ceará Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática UNESP - São Vicente Instituto Oceanográfico Universidade de São Paulo - São Paulo Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática UNESP - São Vicente CNPq: 142002/2010-0 Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico: 1571/07 CNPq: 311609/2014-7 CNPq: 552299/2010-3 Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico: BMD-0008-00058.01.18/09

Seasonal distribution of Marine Litter (ML) on Santos beaches was assessed using a citizen science strategy. Plastics and cigarette butts (CB) were the dominant items in all sampling campaigns. Seasonal distribution did not result in significant differences for most items. Plastic and CB amounts were high in summer compared to autumn. For all sampled sites the presence of beach users influenced ML densities. However, results showed that some sites presented an additional influence of local hydrodynamic. Moderate amounts of hazardous items including metal, glass, CB, sanitary waste and plastic tubes used to pack and market illicit drugs represented between 20.8 and 31% of all ML over the seasons. The beaches of Santos were classified as dirty in autumn and spring and as extremely dirty in winter and summer. These findings can serve as a baseline to support mitigating actions by public authorities and start monitoring programs of ML not only in Santos but also in other urbanized beaches.

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T15:28:23Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-02-20 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) aim to protect habitats, biodiversity, and ecological processes as a conservation tool. These areas have been affected by contamination, which threats the biodiversity and ecological functioning. In this study, we evaluated the sediment quality of Xixová-Japuí State Park (XJSP), an MPA located in an urbanized Bay (Santos, Southeast Brazil) by integrating multiple lines-of-evidence. Six sites were selected within the XJSP and analyzed for sediment chemistry, toxicity, and benthic community descriptors using Sediment Quality Triad approach (SQT). Whole-sediment Toxicity Identification Evaluation (TIE) was employed as a complementary line of evidence to confirm the presence of domestic effluent discharges as a potential stressor. The SQT showed that sediments collected within XJSP are impacted by contaminants, exhibiting chronic toxicity and changes in benthic community. TIE results indicated that trace metals, organic contaminants, and ammonia contributed to the observed effects. Our results also indicate a lack of effectiveness of MPA in protecting the biodiversity due to the contamination sources, which requires efforts to pollution control in order to ensure the environmental conservation and management plan goals. Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Pça. Infante D. Henrique s/n° Centro de Estudos do Mar Universidade Federal do Paraná, Av. Beira Mar, s/n° Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Pça. Infante D. Henrique s/n° CNPq: # 311609/2014-7 FAPESP: #13/15482-0 CNPq: #31552 CNPq: #34449 CNPq: #39038 CNPq: #455280/2014-2

Diuron is a herbicide used in agricultural and urban settings and also as an antifouling agent. Recent studies have indicated sublethal responses of diuron in the endocrine system of fish and amphibians. Given the potential of climate change to also alter fish endocrinology, the combination of environmental stressors with diuron may contribute to its sublethal toxicity. In this study, the effects of temperature and salinity on thyroid targets of diuron were assessed in juveniles of the estuarine fish Menidia beryllina under different conditions of salinity (10 and 20‰) and temperature (10 and 20 °C). Environmentally relevant concentrations of diuron affected the growth, and the higher temperature reduced the condition factor of animals. Increased levels of T3 were observed in fish from all treatments, and at 10 °C, T4 levels were augmented at 10‰ but reduced at 20‰. Increased gene expression of deiodinases at 20‰ in both temperatures suggests the influence of salinity on the regulation of hormone imbalance via deiodination pathway activation. Decreased transcripts of thyroid and growth hormone receptors were also observed following diuron treatment. These results indicate that changes in environmental stressors may have significant impacts on the ecological risk of diuron in estuarine fish.

The presence of legacy contaminants in sediments from three Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) of the coast of São Paulo State was evaluated. Four sampling surveys were conducted between 2013 and 2015 in 10 sites, distributed along the Laje de Santos Marine and Xixova-Japui State Parks (PEMLS and XJSP, respectively) and Central Coast Marine Protection Area (APAMLC). Samples were analyzed for sediment texture, total organic carbon, CaCO3, metals (Al, Fe, Hg, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn), aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (AH and PAH). Sediments were generally sandy (excepting muddy samples from APAMLC), with variable amounts of TOC, OM and CaCO3. Most of the sediments exhibited low to moderate concentrations of metals, except APAMLC. Low contamination of sediments by hydrocarbons was found but samples from XLSP and APAMLC exhibited the highest concentrations of biogenic AH and PAH from pyrogenic sources. In APAMLC and PEMLS, the levels of metals can be considered as background levels according to geochemical indices (Igeo and EF). In XJSP and especially in APAMLC data indicated poor sediment quality, probably due to the effect of anthropic activities. Resumo A contaminação dos sedimentos superficiais foi avaliada neste estudo em amostras de áreas marinhas protegidas (AMP) da costa central de São Paulo. Quatro campanhas de amostragem foram feitas entre 2013 e 2015 em 10 sítios localizados nos Parques Estaduais Marinho da Laje de Santos e Xixová-Japuí (PEMLS e PEXJ, respectivamente), e Área de Proteção Ambiental Litoral Centro (APAMLC). As amostras foram analisadas quanto granulometria, carbono orgânico total, CaCO3, metais (Al, Fe, Hg, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb e Zn) e hidrocarbonetos alifáticos(AHs) e policíclicos aromáticos (PAHs). Em geral os sedimentos foram arenosos (exceto aqueles de APAMLC, que foram lamosos) e com quantidades variáveis de COT, MO e CaCO3. A maioria das amostras apresentaram baixas concentrações de metais de acordo com índices geoquímicos (Igeo e fatores de enriquecimento - FE). Baixa contaminação por hidrocarbonetos foi encontrada e em APAMLC os sedimentos apresentaram as maiores concentrações de AHs de origem biogênica e PAHs de pirogênicos. Nos sedimentos de APAMLC e PEMLS, os níveis de metais podem ser considerados como valores de referência. Já em PEXJ, os dados indicaram baixa qualidade de sedimentos, possivelmente devido às fontes antrópicas.

In this study, the quality of sediments from three Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) located on the coast of São Paulo (Laje de Santos Marine State Park - PEMLS; Xixova-Japui State Park - XJSP; and Central Coast Marine Protection Area - APAMLC) was assessed. Four sampling surveys were conducted (September/October 2013; January 2014; July 2014; January 2015). Sediment samples were collected at10 sites, distributed along the 3 MPAs. Samples were analyzed for sediment texture, total organic carbon, CaCO3, metals, aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and for whole-sediment and sediment-water interface toxicities. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to integrate data. Most of the sediments exhibited low concentrations of chemicals, with the exception of those from P2 (APAMLC) where moderate levels of contaminants were detected. Sediments from P7 and P9 (PEMLS) occasionally showed signs of petroleum hydrocarbons. The other sediments showed no relevant contamination but presented variable toxicity, especially those of bioclastic composition. The PCA indicated a contribution of the sediment properties to the toxicities, especially the CaCO3. In bioclastic sediments, toxicity might be due to physical causes by or any indirect factor such as the presence of ammonia. It was concluded that both natural and anthropic factors are causing toxicity in sediments from the MPAs studied. Resumo Este estudo analisou a qualidade dos sedimentos de três Áreas Marinhas Protegidas (AMP) situadas na porção central do litoral paulista (Parque Estadual Marinho da Laje de Santos - PEMLS; Parque Estadual Xixová-Japuí- PEXJ; Área de Proteção Ambiental Marinha do Litoral Centro - APAMLC). Quatro campanhas de coleta foram organizadas (Setembro/Outobro-2013; Janeiro-2014; Julho-2014; Janeiro-2015). Amostras de sedimento foram coletadas em 10 pontos ao longo das 3 AMP. As amostras foram analisadas para granulometria, carbono orgânico total, CaCO3, metais, hidrocarbonetos alifáticos e policíclico aromáticos, e toxicidade de sedimento integral e interface sedimento-água. Análise de Componentes Principais foi utilizada na integração dos dados. A maioria das amostras exibiu baixa contaminação, exceto a amostra de P2 (APAMLC) onde níveis moderados de contaminantes foram detectados. Sedimentos de P7 e P9 (PEMLS) eventualmente apresentaram sinais de hidrocarbonetos de petróleo. As demais amostras não apresentaram contaminação relevante, mas tiveram toxicidades variáveis, especialmente os sedimentos predominantemente bioclásticos. A PCA indicou forte contribuição das propriedades do sedimento, principalmente CaCO3 e amônia, na geração da toxicidade, indicando que fatores naturais e/ou antrópicos podem estar induzindo a toxicidade nas AMP estudadas.

Lethal and sublethal responses related to different phases of metabolism (phases I and II enzymatic activities), neurotoxicity (acetylcholinesterase activity), oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activities), and genetic damage (DNA strand breaks) were analysed to assess the possible adverse effects of pharmaceuticals bound to marine sediments. The crustacean amphipod Ampelisca brevicornis was chosen as the bioindicator species. Organisms were exposed for 10 days to sediment spiked with pharmaceutical compounds frequently used and previously detected in the environment: carbamazepine (CBZ), ibuprofen (IBP), fluoxetine (FX), 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE2), propranolol (PRO), and caffeine (CAF). Short-term bioassay to evaluate amphipod mortality was recommended to assess pollution by CBZ, FX, and PRO. IBP and PRO were metabolized by phases I and II detoxification enzymatic activities. Oxidative stress was caused by PRO and CAF. Contrary to expected results, DNA damage (strand breaks) decreased after the exposure of amphipods to sediment spiked with IBP, FX, EE2, PRO, and CAF (including environmental concentrations). FX was neurotoxic to amphipods. The battery of biomarkers tested allowed the assessment of bioavailability, oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and neurotoxicity of the pharmaceuticals analysed. The results of this study suggested that pharmaceutical products at concentrations currently found in the environment might cause a wide variety of adverse effects (based on laboratory studies). The results obtained here are useful for environmental risk assessment of marine sediments contaminated by pharmaceuticals. Nevertheless, more research is needed using field-based marine sediments.

Climate conditions and the movement of water masses are among the main factors that influence the destination of pollutants, acting upon transport and dispersion affecting, thus, the quality of water. Samples from Santos Bay were collected under normal conditions (08/21/2008) and during the entrance of a frontal system (08/22/2008) and tested for chronic ecotoxicity using fertilized eggs of sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus. Samples were toxic for stations near Xixova-Japui State Park, Port of Santos, Submarine Outfall and Moela’s Island, sites related to pollution sources. Differences in climate conditions were observed and its contribution on toxicity seemed to be significant at the entrance of Sao Vicente estuary and Moela’s Island. At the stations in Santos Bay under influence of contamination from multiple sources such as the presence of outfall and sediments disposal from dredging, the continuous release of compounds still plays an important role in environmental quality.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T17:12:16Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2016-12-01 Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Government of Andalusia, Spain European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) The marine amphipod Ampelisca brevicornis was used as model organism of benthic macrofauna to assess the possible adverse effects of pharmaceuticals bound to sediments. Organisms were exposed to sediment spiked with novobiocin (NOV) and methotrexate (MTX) for 10 days in order to estimate the acute toxicity (lethal effects) produced by the two compounds. The surviving organisms were pooled and analyzed to determine their sublethal responses associated with different phases of metabolism (enzyme activities in phases I and II), oxidative stress (antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation), and genotoxicity (DNA damage in the form of strand breaks). No lethal or sublethal effects were observed in the amphipods exposed to NOV. For organisms exposed to sediments spiked with MTX the results were found to calculate the concentration that was lethal to 50% of the organisms exposed in the toxicity tests (LC50 of 30.36 ng/g). MTX also induced the metabolism of enzyme detoxification activities in phases I and II. Oxidative stress and DNA damage in particular were also observed, indicating responses associated with MTX's mechanism of action. Both mortality and the set of applied biomarkers allowed for the assessment of bioavailability, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity of NOV and MTX. The information obtained in this investigation can assist in ecological risk assessment of marine sediments contaminated by pharmaceuticals. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Sao Paulo State Univ Julio de Mesquita Filho, Biosci Inst, Pca Infante D Henrique, BR-11330900 Sao Vicente, Brazil Univ Fed Ceara, Inst Marine Sci, BR-60165081 Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil Univ Cadiz, Dept Phys Chem, Fac Marine & Environm Sci, Cadiz 11510, Spain Sao Paulo State Univ Julio de Mesquita Filho, Biosci Inst, Pca Infante D Henrique, BR-11330900 Sao Vicente, Brazil CAPES: 5133/11-4 CAPES: BEX 0362/10-7 Government of Andalusia, Spain: P09-RNM-5136

This study aimed to evaluate the environmental quality of the marine portion of Xixova-Japui State Park (XJSP), an urban marine protected area, which is influenced by multiple contamination sources, by using ecotoxicological and geochemical analyses. Sediments were predominantly sandy, with low CaCO3 and organic matter contents, and presented contamination by metals (Cd, Cu, Zn). Acute toxicity was detected in three tested samples, and copepod exposed to sediments from four stations exhibited lower fecundities, despite the absence of significant effects. Contamination and toxicity seemed to be associated, suggesting that the environment is degraded and presents risks to the biota. Whole sediment TIE indicated ammonia as a main responsible for toxicity, suggesting sewage is a main contributor to sediment degradation. As external contamination sources seem to be negatively influencing the sediment quality, the park conservation objectives are not being fully reached, demanding actions to mitigate impacts.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T16:44:02Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-01-01 Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico Tropical marine environments are rich in biodiversity and the presence of harbor activities in these areas can harm the coastal ecosystems. In this study, we assessed sediment quality of two harbors from a tropical region in Brazil by applying multiple lines-of-evidence approach. This approach included the integration of results on: (1) grain size, organic matter, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, trace metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, linear alkylbenzenes, and tributyltin; (2) acute toxicity of whole sediments and chronic toxicity of liquid phases; and (3) benthic community descriptors. Our results revealed that the main contaminants detected in sediments from Mucuripe and Pecém Harbors were chromium, copper, nitrogen, zinc, and tributyltin. These toxicants arise from typical harbor activities. However, the changes in benthic composition and structure appear to depend on a combination of physical impacts, such as the deposition of fine sediments and the toxic potential of contaminants, especially in Mucuripe. Thus, apart from toxicants physical processes are important in describing risks. This information may assist in management and conservation of marine coastal areas. Instituto de Ciências do Mar Universidade Federal do Ceará Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática UNESP Instituto do Mar Universidade Federal de São Paulo Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares Universidade de São Paulo Instituto Oceanográfico Universidade de São Paulo - São Paulo Instituto de Oceanografia Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (FURG) Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática UNESP Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico: 1571/07 Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico: BMD-0008-00058.01.18/09

Environmental damages or disturbances to genetic material are studied under the scope of several areas, such as toxicology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics. These chemical or physical injuries on the DNA structure can promote changes and damages that are evaluated by genotoxic studies. Genotoxicity is the harmful action of a xenobiotic agent (chemical or physical) on DNA resulting in genetic mutation. This harm may result in tumors (somatic cells) or be transmitted from generation to generation (germline cells), affecting future generations developing diseases or malformations. The results of damaging activities of these chemical agents range from single and double-strand breaks, cross-linking between DNA bases or between DNA bases and proteins, and formation of DNA adducts when a chemical compound is covalently linked to DNA (Preston and Hoffmann 2001). Contaminants may give rise to chain breaks in four different ways —direct binding of genotoxic compounds; through the effects of oxygen radicals; as a result of interaction with reactive metabolites; and as a consequence of enzymatic action of excision repair mechanism (Eastman and Barry 1992; Speit and Hartmann 1999). The damages described above

Submitted by Guilherme Lemeszenski (guilherme@nead.unesp.br) on 2013-08-22T18:43:46Z No. of bitstreams: 1 S1679-87592010000700011.pdf: 61956 bytes, checksum: fcdc6ce87c2e044a8a8af744be8588d9 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2013-08-22T18:43:46Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 S1679-87592010000700011.pdf: 61956 bytes, checksum: fcdc6ce87c2e044a8a8af744be8588d9 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2010-06-01 Made available in DSpace on 2013-09-30T17:41:33Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1679-87592010000700011.pdf: 61956 bytes, checksum: fcdc6ce87c2e044a8a8af744be8588d9 (MD5) S1679-87592010000700011.pdf.txt: 27786 bytes, checksum: 16c167b2d5e3ce2a437e4dd048347001 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2010-06-01 Submitted by Vitor Silverio Rodrigues (vitorsrodrigues@reitoria.unesp.br) on 2014-05-20T13:12:25Z No. of bitstreams: 2 S1679-87592010000700011.pdf: 61956 bytes, checksum: fcdc6ce87c2e044a8a8af744be8588d9 (MD5) S1679-87592010000700011.pdf.txt: 27786 bytes, checksum: 16c167b2d5e3ce2a437e4dd048347001 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-05-20T13:12:25Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1679-87592010000700011.pdf: 61956 bytes, checksum: fcdc6ce87c2e044a8a8af744be8588d9 (MD5) S1679-87592010000700011.pdf.txt: 27786 bytes, checksum: 16c167b2d5e3ce2a437e4dd048347001 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2010-06-01 Alterações hematológicas em peixes são consideradas uma importante ferramenta para avaliar processos patológicos decorrentes da exposição a poluentes ambientais. Micropogonias furnieri (Desmarest, 1823) (corvina) é comumente encontrada em regiões estuarinas e eventualmente está exposta a inúmeros contaminantes. No presente estudo foi avaliado o quadro hematológico de indivíduos de M. furnieri coletados na Baixada Santista: o Sistema Estuarino de Santos, considerado poluído, e o estuário do Rio Itanhaém (controle). Foram avaliados o número de Eritrócitos (Er), o Hematócrito (Ht), a taxa de Hemoglobina (Hb), o Volume Corpuscular Médio (VCM) e a Concentração de Hemoglobina Corpuscular Média (CHCM). Nos peixes coletados no Sistema Estuarino de Santos, os níveis de Ht foram significativamente menores, enquanto os níveis de CHCM e Hb foram significativamente mais altos, indicando que os prováveis efeitos estejam atribuídos aos diferentes níveis de contaminação encontrados nos estuários. Hematological alterations in fish are considered a useful tool to evaluate pathological processes resulting from the exposure to environmental pollutants. The whitemouth croaker Micropogonias furnieri is a common species in estuarine areas and potentially exposed to many contaminants. In the present study, the hematological characteristics of fish collected at two sites in Baixada Santista (Santos Estuarine System - SES, a polluted site; and the Estuary of Itanhaém River - EIR, unpolluted site) del was analysed. The following blood descriptors were analyzed: number of Erythrocytes (Er), Hematocrit (Ht), Hemoglobin (Hb), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). Fish from SES exhibited significant lower levels of Ht and increase on MCHC and Hb. Such differences are likely related to the different contamination levels found in these estuaries. Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho Campus Experimental do Litoral Paulista Universidade Federal do Ceará (UFC) Instituto de Ciências do Mar Universidade Santa Cecília Universidade de São Paulo Instituto Oceanográfico Instituto de Pesca Laboratório de Patologia de Organismos Aquáticos Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho Campus Experimental do Litoral Paulista

The biomonitoring of fish using biomarkers represents a useful tool for the assessment of aquatic pollution. This study evaluated the sublethal toxic effects of aquatic pollution on fish collected from a site contaminated by metals. Water and fish (Oreochromis niloticus) samples were collected from a pond in the Parque Ecologico do Tiete (PET) that lies along the Tiete River (Sao Paulo, Brazil), and from a control site (an experimental fish farm). The metal content of the water was evaluated, and fish were used to examine the properties of gill mucus and blood. The PET fish were evaluated for alterations in the in vitro transportability of mucus and changes in blood properties (e.g., cell volume, hemoglobin concentration, red blood cells, and white blood cell count). The results of the water analyzes indicated metal levels above the legal standards for Fe (0.71 mg/L), Ni (0.06 mg/L), Mn (0.11 mg/L), and Pb (0.48 mg/L). Compared to the controls, the hematologic parameter analyzes of PET fish revealed significantly higher numbers of erythrocytes (RBC), leukocytes (WBC), lymphocytes, erythroblasts, and Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV); however, the hemoglobin content and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) values were significantly lower. The frequencies of nuclear abnormalities and micronuclei were significantly higher and the mucociliary transport was significantly lower in PET fish than in the controls. These results suggest that fish from the contaminated site exhibit a series of physiological responses, which probably indicate health disturbances. Furthermore, the results suggest that blood and mucus are promising, non-destructive targets for use in the monitoring of pollution.

The present study aimed to assess the sediment quality in a tropical estuary located in the northeast of Brazil under semi-arid conditions and multiple sources of contamination, using both toxicity bioassays and metal distribution. The metal distribution followed a concentration gradient decreasing one order of magnitude from the inner station toward the outer estuary, with amounts in the following order: Fe > Al > Zn > Cr > Pb > Cu. The index of geoaccumulation indicated a metal enrichment in the Ceara river sediment, mainly at inner sites, considered from moderately to strongly contaminated by Al, Cu, Cr and Zn. Sediment samples were considered toxic by means of whole sediment tests with copepods (reproduction) and amphipods (survival), and also elutriate fraction and sediment-water interface with sea urchin embryos (development). Acute and chronic toxicity did not exhibit a significant correlation with metals, emphasizing the influence of other contaminants mainly related to the pollution sources installed in the mid-estuary.

The present study reports the use of biomarkers analyzes in mangrove root crab Goniopsis cruentata tissues to assess the environmental quality of two tropical estuarine areas. Animals from Ceara River estuary presented inhibition of ChE and GST enzymatic activities and higher rates of DNA damage with respect to those sampled in a pristine environment. G. cruentata appears to represent a proper species to monitor the quality of tropical estuaries. Since Ceara River is a legally protected area, this survey highlight the needs to implement actions to control pollution loads and improve the protection of natural ecosystems and resources.