Uptake Kinetics, Bioconcentration and Debromination of BDE 47 in Juvenile Marine Fish Psetta maxima
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of global flame retardants whose residues have markedly increased in fish and human tissues during the last decade. They belong to persistent and toxic contaminants which need more attention and toxicological study as their degradation in the environment is not well understood. This study characterizes 2,2',4,4' tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 47) bioconcentration, elimination and biotransformation in juvenile turbot Psetta maxima, in order to evaluate the risk of its bioaccumulation in the marine environment. During this study, juvenile turbot were exposed to environmentally relevant BDE 47 concentrations from 0.001 to 1 mg/L for 16 days via aqueous exposure. This study found that juvenile turbot bioconcentrated and biotransformed BDE 47. There was no difference in standard length or weight between control and exposed fish. Uptake and elimination of BDE 47 by the turbot during exposure were examined in controlled laboratory experiments. Bioconcentration of BDE 47 was similar in fish from all treatment groups. Bioconcentration was rapid and increased with exposure time, since the bioconcentration factor (BCF) was higher. However, elimination was slower in comparison and low elimination was detected after 10 days in clean water. BDE 47 concentration in water influences the BCF. Half life ranged between 37 and 108 days and theoretical times t90 could range from 120 to 358 days. The present study demonstrates a stepwise debromination of BDE 47 to BDE 28.
Water, Air, Soil Pollution