Speciation-specific chromium bioaccumulation and detoxification in fish using hydrogel microencapsulated biogenic nanosilver and zeolite synergizing with biomarkers.

Grass carp intestinal waste-mediated biosynthesized nanosilver (AgNPs) was valorized using guaran and zeolite matrices, resulting in AgNPs-guaran, AgNPs-zeolite, and AgNPs-guaran -zeolite composites. The valorized products were examined using Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis and X-ray Diffraction analysis to confirm uniform dispersion and entrapment of AgNPs within the matrixes. These valorized products were evaluated for their efficacy in detoxifying the ubiquitous and toxic hexavalent chromium (Cr ⁶⁺ ) in aquatic environments, with Anabas testudineus exposed to 2 mg l ^-1 of Cr ⁶⁺ for 60 days. Remarkable reduction of Cr ⁶⁺ concentration to 0.86 ± 0.007 mg l ^-1 was achieved with AgNPs-guaran-zeolite composite, indicating successful reclamation of contaminated water and food safety assurance. Consistency in results was further corroborated by minimal stress-related alterations in fish physiological parameters and integrated biomarker response within the experimental group treated with the AgNPs-guaran-zeolite composite. Despite observed chromium accumulation in fish tissues, evidence of physiological stability was apparent, potentially attributable to trivalent chromium accumulation, serving as an essential nutrient for the fish. Additionally, the challenge study involving Anabas testudineus exposed to Aeromonas hydrophila exhibited the lowest cumulative mortality (11.11%) and highest survival rate (87.5%) within the same experimental group. The current study presents a novel approach encompassing the valorization of AgNPs for Cr ⁶⁺ detoxification under neutral to alkaline pH conditions, offering a comprehensive framework for environmental remediation.
(© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)