Hidden dangers: aromatic amines and their impact on freshwater species

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2025

Authors

Rebelo, D (Author) Other; Antunes, SC (Author) FCUP; Rodrigues, S (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Chemistry and Ecology

Vol. 41

Pages: 762-791

ISSN: 0275-7540

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 1 Citation

Scopus - 2 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-018-X5P

DOI: 10.1080/02757540.2025.2498156

Abstract (EN): 4-chloroaniline (4-CA) and 3,4-dichloroaniline (3,4-DCA), used in producing pharmaceuticals, dyes, cosmetics, and pesticides, have recently increased production and consumption. These compounds have been detected in the aquatic environment (ng/L to mu g/L) and were proposed as candidates for inclusion in the 4th Watch List of the Water Framework Directive. This study aimed to evaluate the ecotoxicity of aromatic amines to aquatic organisms of different trophic levels. Toxicity values considering bioluminescence (Aliivibrio fischeri), growth inhibition (Lemna minor), and immobilisation (Daphnia magna) revealed different species sensitivity: D. magna < A. fischeri < L. minor to both compounds. Escherichia coli growth significantly decreased at >= 2.06 g 4-CA/L and >= 434 mg 3,4-DCA/L. Several disturbances were observed: photosynthesis disruption and oxidative stress in L. minor (>= 0.73 mg 4-CA/L; >= 10.1 mg 3,4-DCA/L); reproductive changes, stress and oxidative damage in D. magna subchronically exposed (>= 13.89 mu g 4-CA/L; >= 11.13 mu g 3,4-DCA/L), morphological abnormalities, and oxidative stress in Danio rerio (>= 5.21 mu g 4-CA/L; >= 0.38 mu g 3,4-DCA/L). Hazardous concentrations for 5% of species (120 mu g 4-CA/L; 130 mu g 3,4-DCA/L) and derived predicted no-effect concentration values indicate a potential risk of acute toxicity only for 4-CA, considering environmentally relevant concentrations. Continuous monitoring and mitigation efforts are crucial to safeguard biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 30