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PAH phototoxicity--an ecologically irrelevant phenomenon?
Blair G McDonald1, Peter M Chapman
1EVS Environmental Consultants, 195 Pemberton Avenue, North Vancouver, BC, Canada V7P 2R4.
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|January 14, 2003
Summary
Photoenhanced toxicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) is proven in labs, but its real-world ecological impact is uncertain. Environmental decisions require more evidence before using PAH phototoxicity data.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Toxicology
- Photochemistry
Background:
- Photoenhanced toxicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) is a known phenomenon.
- Documented effects span multiple taxa and toxicological endpoints, with a described mechanism of action.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the ecological relevance of PAH phototoxicity.
- To determine the conditions under which PAH phototoxicity is ameliorated.
- To assess the suitability of PAH phototoxicity data for environmental management.
Main Methods:
- Review of laboratory and in situ studies on PAH phototoxicity.
- Analysis of factors influencing PAH phototoxicity (physical, chemical, biotic).
Main Results:
- PAH phototoxicity is well-demonstrated under controlled conditions.
- Various environmental factors can mitigate the effects of PAH phototoxicity.
- The ecological relevance of this phenomenon remains uncertain.
Conclusions:
- PAH phototoxicity data should not guide environmental management without established ecological relevance.
- Decisions must incorporate a weight of evidence approach.
- Further research is needed to firmly establish the ecological significance of PAH phototoxicity.