An LC-MS-Based Molecular Networking Proof-of-Concept for Revealing Ecological Functional Dynamics in Nylsvley Ramsar...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Ecotoxicology
• Wetland Science

Background:

• Wetlands are vital ecosystems sensitive to anthropogenic pressures.
• Human settlement near Nylsvley, a Ramsar wetland, has led to ecological changes.
• Understanding the chemical status of wetlands is crucial for conservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To chemically profile water from Nylsvley wetland across different sites and seasons.
• To identify and assess potential ecological risks from detected contaminants.
• To establish a baseline for future chemical monitoring of the wetland.

Main Methods:

• Untargeted Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) for chemical profiling.
• Molecular networking to analyze and visualize chemical complexity.
• Sampling across two sites (Jacana Hide Site and Site 3) during dry and wet seasons.

Main Results:

• Significant chemical differences observed between Jacana Hide Site and Site 3.
• Detection of anthropogenic contaminants including plastic-associated compounds (erucamide, oleamide), phthalates, and a UV filter.
• Identification of alkaloids suggesting wastewater influence.
• Seasonal variations in chemical composition noted, particularly after rainfall.

Conclusions:

• The study provides an initial chemical assessment of Nylsvley wetland.
• Emerging contaminants pose potential toxicological risks to aquatic life.
• Wastewater inputs may be impacting the wetland's chemical integrity.
• Molecular networking is effective for wetland chemical analysis and monitoring.