Threats posed by xenoestrogenic chemicals to the aquatic ecosystem, fish reproduction and humans: a review
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Date
2020
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African Journal of Aquatic Science
Abstract
Xenoestrogens mimic and interfere with natural functions of oestrogens and adversely affect fish reproduction.
Pesticides, plastics, wastewaters and pharmaceuticals are sources of xenoestrogens, and are carried through
surface runoffs to water bodies at concentration levels that are harmful to aquatic organisms. Fish absorb
xenoestrogens through ingestion of contaminated food items, respiratory gills and dermal contact. Xenoestrogens
bioaccumulate in fish tissues, eliciting various reproductive abnormalities, e.g. males may abnormally produce
vitellogenins and present with reduced sperm counts, whereas females experience reduced fecundity and
hatchability of eggs. Through the food web, xenoestrogens biomagnify in fish predators, e.g. seals and humans,
which in turn risk suffering from reproductive malfunctions. Studies of adverse impact of xenoestrogens on fish
have mainly been limited to developed countries, yet fish are a major food and trade commodity for developing
sub-Saharan African countries. This review serves as a basis for research on adverse impacts of xenoestrogens
on fish reproduction, and other consumers of aquatic organisms in Lake Victoria. The lake receives high levels
of pollutants from untreated or poorly-treated domestic and industrial wastes and agro-chemicals. Control of
xenoestrogens requires concerted effort from multistakeholders to undertake activities such as surveillance,
advocacy, legislation and biodegradation to minimise their adverse impacts.
Description
Keywords
aquatic environment, endocrine disrupting chemicals, Lake Victoria, oestrogens, vitellogenin
Citation
Badamasi, I., Odong, R., & Masembe, C. (2020). Threats posed by xenoestrogenic chemicals to the aquatic ecosystem, fish reproduction and humans: a review. African Journal of Aquatic Science, 45(3), 243-258. DOI: 10.2989/16085914.2020.1746233