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Hexabromocyclododecane affects benthic-pelagic coupling in an experimental ecosystem
Clare Bradshaw1, Johan Näslund2, Joakim Hansen2
1School of Natural Sciences, Technology and Environmental Studies, Södertörn University, 14189 Huddinge, Sweden.
Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)
|July 29, 2015
Summary
This study examined Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) impacts on Baltic Sea coastal ecosystems. Elevated HBCDD levels harmed species and altered nutrient cycling, demonstrating significant ecosystem-level effects.
Area of Science:
- Environmental toxicology
- Marine ecology
- Ecosystem science
Background:
- Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) is a persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) flame retardant.
- Limited data exists on HBCDD's effects on coastal species and ecosystems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dose-response effects of HBCDD on a coastal Baltic Sea ecosystem.
- To understand the structural and functional consequences of HBCDD exposure.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 1000 L experimental mesocosms with Baltic Sea ecosystem components.
- Exposed mesocosms to HBCDD via spiked plankton over 8 months.
- Measured various structural and functional endpoints.
Main Results:
- Increased HBCDD concentrations reduced the biomass of Macoma balthica.
- This biomass reduction led to decreased nutrient recirculation.
- Plankton communities were altered by direct toxicity or indirect effects on nutrient cycling.
Conclusions:
- HBCDD exposure significantly impacts coastal ecosystem structure and function.
- Realistic experimental setups are crucial for understanding complex ecosystem responses.
- This is the first study to assess HBCDD's ecosystem-level effects.
Keywords:
Baltic seaBrominated flame retardantsHBCDDIndirect ecosystem effectsMesocosm studyStructural equation modellingMore Related Videos
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