Ecotoxicological analysis of bisphenol A for a tropical benthic macroinvertebrate before and after removal of the compound via commercial and low-cost adsorbent

Abstract

Emerging pollutants have received much attention due to adverse effects on the environment and human health. Among the emerging pollutants, bisphenol A (BPA) can be highlighted. Freshwater ecosystems had the highest average BPA levels compared to estuaries, while marine/coastal ecosystems had the lowest mean BPA levels. An important issue has been not investigated is the change in the BPA toxicity to aquatic organisms resulting from the removal of the compound by a low-cost alternative adsorbent compared to a commercial adsorbent. The seed husk of the Moringa oleifera plant is considered a low-cost adsorbent, having previously been proven effective for the removal of substances such as anti-inflammatories and pesticides. The objective of the present project will be to evaluate and compare the toxicity of BPA, in solution and in an environmental sample, for the larva of the insect Chironomus sancticaroli (tropical freshwater macroinvertebrate), before and after the process of adsorption of the compound using M. oleifera seed husks and commercial powdered activated carbon. The test organism will be exposed to concentrations and environmental sample containing BPA and the effects on survival, emergence and the proportion of males and females will be evaluated. The present project will contribute with information on the toxicity of bisphenol A to a tropical invertebrate and on the efficiency of natural materials in the removal of this pollutant in aquatic systems. The present project will contribute with information on the toxicity of BPA to tropical benthic organism and the efficiency of natural materials in removing that pollutant from aquatic systems.