Differential biotransformation ability may alter fish biodiversity in polluted waters

Area of Science:

• Environmental toxicology
• Ecotoxicology
• Fish biology

Background:

• Biotransformation pathways influence species sensitivity to chemical stressors.
• Understanding these pathways is crucial for assessing aquatic ecosystem health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate interspecific differences in biotransformation capacity among five Swiss fish species.
• To evaluate the impact of land use on fish biotransformation activity.

Main Methods:

• Assessed the presence and activity of major biotransformation pathways in fish.
• Compared micropollutant clearance rates across species and land use types.

Main Results:

• Significant interspecific differences in biotransformation capacity were observed.
• The invasive pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) exhibited 3- to 7-fold higher micropollutant clearance than native species.
• Urban and agricultural land use increased enzyme activity (11-fold) and micropollutant clearance (2-fold).

Conclusions:

• Fish with lower biotransformation activity are more vulnerable to chemical stress.
• Differences in biotransformation capacity can lead to competitive advantages and alter aquatic biodiversity assemblages.