Bioaccumulation and Ecotoxicity of Silver Nanoparticles in Simple Food Chain Algae-Microcrustaceans in the Presence of Natural Organic Matter

Abstract

The rapid growth of nanotechnology has resulted in widespread use of nanoparticles (NP) in various commercial products. Consequently, these NP may enter aquatic environments, where they can interact with natural organic matter (NOM) such as humic substances and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). The present work aims to evaluate the toxicity of manufactured coated silver nanoparticles (AgNP) in the presence of NOM on the microalgae Raphidocelis subcapitata and the microcrustacean Daphnia similis, both individually and within a simple food chain. By investigating the influence of NOM on the bioavailability and toxicity of AgNP, this research seeks to understand the potential environmental risks associated with these nanomaterials. The test-organisms, individually and simple food chain, were exposed to AgNP manufactured coated (citrate and poly(ethylene glycol), respectively Cit and PEG) and ionic silver solution (AgNO₃) in the absence and presence of NOM, represented by humic substances (HS) and natural EPS (excreted by algae). Algae growth inhibition was assessed, and the toxic effect of silver ions remained unchanged in the presence of NOM. However, the toxicity of the highest of AgCit was reduced by HS. NOM enhanced silver bioaccumulation in algae, likely due to surface binding of HS-Ag complexes. HS exposure to AgCit decreased silver bioaccumulation, correlating with reduced toxicity. Microcrustaceans exhibited greater sensitivity to silver toxicity compared to algae. The toxic effects on Daphnia similis were evaluated through mortality (EC₅₀) and reproduction (number of neonates). The toxicity ranking was AgNO₃ > AgCit > AgPeg, indicating higher toxicity for ionic silver. Daphnia reproduction was observed at environmentally permitted concentrations. Different toxic effects of AgNP were observed between neonate and adult microcrustaceans, suggesting age-dependent sensitivity. These findings highlight the need for bioassays considering the influence of NOM and capping agents to better understand the environmental impact of nanomaterials.

Keywords

environmental chemistry / nanoparticles / ecotoxicology / humic substances / water contamination

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