Aquatic Ecotoxicity of Nanoparticles
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Springer, Cham
Abstract
Description
Nanotechnology is a cutting-edge, multidisciplinary field that encompasses a
vast array of fundamental and applied sciences for the creation and use of
nanoscale materials for novel solutions. However, nanoparticles (NPs) have
garnered significant attention due to their widespread applications in various
industries. However, their release into aquatic ecosystems has raised
concerns about potential adverse effects on aquatic organisms.
Nanoparticles, due to their unique properties, can enter water bodies and
interact with aquatic organisms, potentially disrupting their physiology,
metabolism, and growth. This can lead to ecological imbalances, affecting
aquatic species and ecosystems, and necessitates thorough assessment to
understand potential risks and mitigate harmful impacts. Given the findings of
several ecotoxicological studies documenting their negative consequences,
there is growing concern today regarding synthetic nanomaterials. This
chapter explores the adverse effects nanoparticles can have on aquatic
ecosystems, their exposure routes in aquatic systems and entry routes into
aquatic organisms, their toxicity mechanisms, environmental conditions that
affect their activities, and the ecological imbalances they result in. To mitigate
the potential for ecological imbalances, it is essential to understand the risks
associated with nanoparticle pollution and implement measures to minimize
their release and exposure in aquatic environments.
Keywords
QH Natural history, QH301 Biology, QR Microbiology