Protective effect of the Spirulina platensis against toxicity induced by Diuron exposure in Mytilus galloprovincialis

Biochemical and physiological alterations caused by Diuron and Triclosan in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis)

The rise in the utilization of pesticides within industrial and agricultural practices has been linked to the occurrence of these substances in aquatic environments. The objective of this work was to evaluate the uptake and adverse impacts of Diuron (Di) and Triclosan (TCS) on the mussel species Mytilus galloprovincialis. To accomplish this, the accumulation and toxicity of these pesticides were gauged following a brief period of exposure spanning 14 days, during which the mussels were subjected to two concentrations (50 and 100 μg/L) of each substance that are ecologically relevant. Chemical analysis of Di and TCS within gills and digestive gland showed that these pesticides could be accumulated in mussel's tissues. In addition, Di and TCS are preferably accumulated in digestive gland. Measured biomarkers included physiological parameters (filtration FC and respiration RC capacity), antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase and catalase), oxidative damage indicator (Malondialdheyde concentration) and neurotoxicity level (acetylcholinesterase activity) were evaluated in gills and digestive glands. Both pesticides were capable of altering the physiology of this species by reducing the FC and RC in concentration and chemical dependent manner. Both pesticides induced also an oxidative imbalance causing oxidative stress. The high considered concentration exceeded the antioxidant defense capacity of the mussel and lead to membrane lipid peroxidation that resulted in cell damage. Finally, the two pesticides tested were capable of interacting with the neuromuscular barrier leading to neurotoxicity in mussel's tissues by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase. The ecotoxicological effect depended on the concentration and the chemical nature of the contaminant. Obtained results revealed also that the Di may exert toxic effects on M. galloprovincialis even at relatively low concentrations compared to TCS. In conclusion, this study presents innovative insights into the possible risks posed by Diuron (Di) and Triclosan (TCS) to the marine ecosystem. Moreover, it contributes essential data to the toxicological database necessary for developing proactive environmental protection measures.

Biocide vs. Eco-Friendly Antifoulants: Role of the Antioxidative Defence and Settlement in Mytilus galloprovincialis

Antifoulant paints were developed to prevent and reduce biofouling on surfaces immersed in seawater. The widespread use of these substances over the years has led to a significant increase of their presence in the marine environment. These compounds were identified as environmental and human threats. As a result of an international ban, research in the last decade has focused on developing a new generation of benign antifoulant paints. This review outlines the detrimental effects associated with biocide versus eco-friendly antifoulants, highlighting what are effective antifoulants and why there is a need to monitor them. We examine the effects of biocide and eco-friendly antifoulants on the antioxidative defence mechanism and settlement in a higher sessile organism, specifically the Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis. These antifoulants can indirectly assess the potential of these two parameters in order to outline implementation of sustainable antifoulants.