Biomarker responses of the amphipod Tiburonella viscana exposed to the antifouling biocide DCOIT in ocean acidification scenarios

Abstract

Ocean acidification caused by climate change is marked by the production of oxygen-free ions. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), acidification can reduce surface ocean pH by 0.3-0.4 units and increase the temperature by 5 °C. Another driver threatening biodiversity is the introduction of exotic species from biofouling. To deal with that, one strategy is based on antifouling paints to form a film to prevent organisms from settling. One antifouling chemical of environmental concern is the biocide booster DCOIT which binds strongly to sediment, presents high lipophilicity, and is characterized by its rapid degradation in the marine environment. Sea water levels have been detected worldwide at concentrations up to 1 ¼g.L1, posing risk to marine biota. The objective of the present study is to determine the toxic effects of DCOIT in marine acidification scenarios on the burrowing amphipod Tiburonella viscana using biomarker responses as a parameter of sublethal effects in solid-phase exposures. The combination of DCOIT contamination and ocean acidification causing toxic effects is considered the main hypothesis. Results will be assessed by means of permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) and biomarkers alterations caused by DCOIT and pH reported. The findings of this study will provide relevant information about the ecological risks of this substance that can support its monitoring, management, and control from a climate change perspective.