Occurrence, ecotoxicity and ecological risks of psychoactive substances in surface waters

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Ecotoxicology
• Water Quality

Background:

• Psychoactive substances (PSs) are emerging contaminants found in surface waters globally.
• Conventional wastewater treatment fails to remove PSs effectively, increasing ecological burden.
• Limited understanding exists regarding PS geographical distribution and aquatic toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review sources, pollution status, and biotoxicity of PSs in surface waters.
• To assess the ecological risks posed by PSs to aquatic ecosystems.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of PS contamination and its effects.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of approximately 140 articles.
• Analysis of PS sources and pollution levels in surface waters.
• Assessment of PS biotoxicity and ecological risks using the risk quotient approach.

Main Results:

• PS concentrations in surface waters reach hundreds or thousands of ng·L^-1.
• Accumulated PSs cause adverse effects in aquatic organisms, including behavioral disorders, organ damage, and DNA changes.
• Oxidative stress is a key mechanism in PS toxicity.

Conclusions:

• PSs pose a medium to high ecological risk in many surface water bodies.
• Effective long-term management and monitoring strategies are crucial.
• Further research is needed to fully understand PS distribution and impact.