[Comparison between biomimetic sampling technique using semipermeable membrane device and bioconcentration in caged...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Ecotoxicology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Semipermeable membrane devices (SPMDs) estimate bioavailable hydrophobic organic compounds (HOCs).
• Limited field research validates SPMD similarity to fish in HOC uptake.
• Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are key environmental contaminants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare HOCs concentrations in SPMDs and fish under field conditions.
• To validate SPMDs as surrogates for fish in PAH monitoring.
• To assess the correlation between bioconcentration factors (BCF) and device concentration factors (DCF).

Main Methods:

• SPMDs and caged crucian carps (Carassius auratus) were deployed simultaneously for 32 days.
• Five sampling sites were established in Meiliang Bay, Taihu Lake.
• PAH concentrations in SPMDs and fish tissues were analyzed.

Main Results:

• PAH composition and relative concentrations were similar between SPMDs and fish.
• A significant correlation (p < 0.0001) was found between lg BCF and lg DCF for PAHs.
• Lipid-normalized PAH concentrations were comparable, with fish-to-SPMD concentration ratios ranging from 0.47 to 4.12.

Conclusions:

• SPMDs are effective surrogates for estimating PAH levels in fish in freshwater lakes.
• SPMDs offer a viable alternative for monitoring bioavailable HOCs.
• This validates the use of SPMDs in environmental monitoring programs.