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Optimized Metolachlor, Epoxiconazole and Chlorantraniliprole Mixture Analysis for Aquatic Toxicity Testing Using
María Florencia Gonzalez1, Iohanna Filippi1,2, María Valeria Amé3
1Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-CIBICI, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Haya de La Torre Esq., Medina Allende, 5000, Córdoba, Argentina.
This study developed a method to measure pesticide mixtures, like metolachlor (MET), epoxiconazole (EP), and chlorantraniliprole (CAP), in aquatic environments. The method is effective for assessing potential toxicity to aquatic life.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Ecotoxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Pesticide mixtures in aquatic ecosystems pose risks to biota.
- Assessing toxicity of novel pesticide mixtures like MET, EP, and CAP is crucial due to their potential co-occurrence near cultivated areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a method for quantifying equivalent toxicity concentrations of MET, EP, and CAP in artificial freshwater.
- To assess the stability of these pesticides during acute toxicity tests.
Main Methods:
- Solid phase extraction coupled with ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry (SPE-UPLC-MS/MS) was employed.
- Method validation included linearity, detection and quantification limits, precision, accuracy, and recovery assessments.
- Pesticide stability was evaluated over 24 hours in artificial freshwater during simulated acute toxicity tests.
Main Results:
- The SPE-UPLC-MS/MS method provided efficient separation (<1.30 min) and sensitive quantification of MET, EP, and CAP.
- Low detection and quantification limits were achieved for all three pesticides.
- While MET and EP showed stability, CAP exhibited a decay of 27% over 24 hours, indicating differential stability in aquatic matrices.
Conclusions:
- The developed SPE-UPLC-MS/MS method is effective for quantifying pesticide mixtures relevant to aquatic ecosystems.
- Understanding the stability of individual pesticides within mixtures is critical for accurate ecotoxicological assessments.
- This method supports the evaluation of potential risks posed by co-occurring pesticides to aquatic biota.
