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Endocrine-Disrupting Compounds in Aquatic Ecosystems.
Citation:
JORDAN, S. J., C. M. FORAN, E. R. BENNETT, E. M. SNYDER, AND W. H. BENSON. Endocrine-Disrupting Compounds in Aquatic Ecosystems. 3rd, Chapter 14, J. Charles Eldridge and James T. Stevens (ed.), Endocrine Toxicology. Informa Healthcare Books, UK, London, Uk, , 324-351, (2010).
Impact/Purpose:
This book chapter is a review of the sources, treatment, and ecological effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in aquatic ecosystems. It includes information on primary sources of EDCs, efficacy of treatment in wastewater systems, laboratory and field studies of EDC effects on fish and invertebrates, and modeling the effects of EDCs on aquatic animal populations and aquatic ecosystems. The book is entitled "Endocrine Toxicology".
Description:
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a ubiquitous issue of concern in our aquatic systems. Commonly detected EDCs include natural and synthetic hormones, surfactants, plasticizers, disinfectants, herbicides and metals. The potency of these chemicals varies substantially, as does their potential to persist and move in the environment. Current research indicates that EDCs are found in complex mixtures in surface, ground, and finished water. The potential physiological consequences of exposure to these contaminants are well documented. Laboratory studies indicate that EDCs alter transcription and protein synthesis, immune system function, metabolism, organ histology and development, gonadal status and reproduction. Field studies support the findings that contaminants alter physiology, gonadal development and potentially reproduction. However, few observations are available to determine if the physiological damage observed in these studies is linked to changes in survival, growth, or reproduction. Even less is known about whether and how exposures to environmental EDCs affect populations of aquatic animals and the ecosystems they inhabit. Identifying factors critical for population sustainability and related ecological effects through modeling and observation will allow us to predict the ecosystems most in danger from EDCs. We discuss lines of research required to inform critical management and policy decisions about EDCs, in the context of the sustainability of aquatic ecosystem.