Sensitivity of Nitokra sp copepod exposed to UVA and UVB filters used in commercial formulations

Abstract

Large discharges of pollutants released in the marine environment have as final destination the sediment, affecting the quality and biodiversity. Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) are lipophilic and poorly biodegradable, with potential for bioaccumulation and persistence in the environment. Compounds from commercial sunscreens are found in the oceans, because they are often used by people. This study evaluated the acute effect of UVA and UVB filters - Benzophenone-3 (BZ- 3), Octyl Salicylate (OS) and Octyl Methoxycinnamate (OMC), detected in commercial sunscreens, performing the test both in a mixture as isolated – using Nitokra sp copepod and the method described in ISO14669:1999. When exposed to the water soluble fraction of the UV filters mixture, the mean of LC50-96h was 11.47 %, corresponding to 190 mg.L-1 of BZ-3, 150 mg.L-1 of OS and 230 mg. L-1 of OMC, while the isolated UV filter showed a tendency to increased lethality.The tests were performed in parallel with the reference substance DSS, and were within the acceptability limits of the LECOTOX LC50-96h = 7.76 (3.98-11.55) mg.L-1 DSS. It was concluded that the test organism and the method used were suitable for the tests with the commercial UV filters mixture and that, although the filters used are fatsoluble, there are bioavailable concentrations in the environment. The tested mixture caused deleterious effects to Nitokra sp. in concentrations lower than ANVISA (2006) allows, therefore more research is needed.