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Chronic Engineered Nanoparticle Additions Alter Insect Emergence and Result in Metal Flux from Aquatic Ecosystems
Brittany G Perrotta1,2,3, Marie Simonin1,4,5, Benjamin P Colman1,6
1Center for the Environmental Implications of NanoTechnology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States.
Environmental Science & Technology
|May 18, 2023
Summary
Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) in freshwater ecosystems significantly reduced insect emergence by up to 24%. These NPs transferred to terrestrial food webs, impacting spider populations and demonstrating aquatic-to-terrestrial ecosystem contamination.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecotoxicology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Freshwater ecosystems receive engineered nanoparticles (NPs) from wastewater and agricultural runoff.
- Nanoparticles pose potential risks to aquatic organisms and food webs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chronic effects of copper and gold NPs on insect emergence.
- To assess NP-mediated contaminant transfer from aquatic insects to riparian spiders.
- To examine the influence of nutrient levels on NP effects.
Main Methods:
- A 9-month mesocosm experiment with controlled NP (copper, gold) and nutrient additions.
- Monthly collection of adult insects and riparian spiders (Tetragnatha, Dolomedes).
- Analysis of NP bioaccumulation in insect and spider tissues.
Main Results:
- Cumulative insect emergence decreased by 19% (copper NPs) and 24% (gold NPs).
- Elevated copper and gold concentrations in insects facilitated terrestrial metal flux.
- Spider populations decreased by approximately 25% in NP-exposed mesocosms.
Conclusions:
- Engineered nanoparticles transfer from aquatic to terrestrial ecosystems via emergent insects.
- NP contamination significantly reduces insect emergence and spider abundance.
- Aquatic ecosystems act as conduits for NP transfer to terrestrial food webs.
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