Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Marine Environments Affect Fish Reproduction-A Critical Review.

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Environmental Toxicology
• Ecotoxicology

Background:

• Marine and coastal ecosystems face significant threats from human-induced pollutants.
• Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are prevalent environmental contaminants impacting marine life.
• PAHs are lipophilic, bioavailable, and can disrupt organisms at various biological levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent research (2015-2025) on endocrine-reproductive alterations in marine fish due to PAH exposure.
• To critically analyze cellular mechanisms underlying PAH-induced reproductive disruption.
• To survey patents for PAH detection methods applicable to marine biomonitoring.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on studies published between 2015 and 2025.
• Synthesis of research identifying endocrine-reproductive changes in fish exposed to PAHs.
• Survey of patents related to PAH detection techniques in aquatic environments.

Main Results:

• PAHs act as endocrine disruptors in marine fish, causing hormonal imbalances.
• Exposure leads to altered gene, enzyme, and protein expression critical for reproduction.
• These disruptions can result in population declines and ecosystem damage.

Conclusions:

• PAH contamination poses a serious risk to marine fish reproduction and population health.
• Understanding cellular mechanisms is crucial for assessing toxicological impacts.
• Developed PAH detection technologies can enhance marine biomonitoring and risk assessment.