Does long-term radiation exposure in Chornobyl impact the reproductive structures of Nuphar lutea (Linné) Smith?

The 1986 Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant accident caused radioactive contamination of water bodies within the Pripyat River floodplain, resulting in the accumulation of radionuclides by macrophytes, which are fundamental species in water ecosystems. Yellow water lily Nuphar lutea (L.) Smith., a macrophyte playing a significant role in the formation of vegetation cover in aquatic ecosystems, is commonly considered as a bioindicator of water pollution. In this study, we investigate the potential of N. lutea as an indicator of radionuclide contamination in water bodies, particularly through changes in its reproductive structures, such as pollen viability, morphology of pollen grains, seeds, and fruits. Our findings reveal that pollen viability remains stable at total absorbed dose rates below 14.4 µGy/h, with only 1-4% of sterile grains. However, beyond this threshold the percentage of sterile grains increases nearly fivefold, pointing to high internal plant exposure to 90Sr. A similar trend was observed in the allometry and size of pollen grains, where small and flattened grains are formed in the reservoir with the highest external radiation dose rate (≥14.4 µGy/h). On the other hand, while morphometric parameters of fruits are influenced by radiation, their variation appears to be the result of a combination of physicochemical factors and the trophic status of a water body. Our research highlights the adverse impact of long-term radiation exposure on the male reproductive system of N. lutea and shows the potential of using the pollen grains sterility as an indicators of heavily radionuclide-contaminated water bodies. Additionally, we observed gradual changes in a pollen allometric length-to-width coefficient as the radiation dose level increases.

Ubiquitous occurrence of 1,4-dioxane in drinking water of China and its ecological and human health risk.

The occurrence and distribution of 1,4-dioxane was investigated in 280 source and finished drinking water samples from 31 Chinese cities, based on which its ecological and health risks were systematically evaluated. The findings demonstrated that 1,4-dioxane was detected in about 80.0 % samples with values ranging from n.d. to 7757 ng/L in source water and n.d. to 2918 ng/L in drinking water. 1,4-Dioxane showed limited removal efficiency using conventional coagulation-sedimentation-filtration processes (14 % ± 48 %), and a removal efficiency of 35 % ± 44 % using ozonation-biological activated carbon advanced treatment processes. Relatively higher concentrations, detection frequency and environmental risk were observed in Taihu Lake, Yellow River, Yangtze River, Zhujiang River, and Huaihe River mainly in the eastern and southern regions, where there are considerable industrial activities and comparatively high population densities. The widespread presence as by-products during manufacturing consumer products e.g., ethoxylated surfactants, suggested municipal wastewater discharges were the dominant source for the ubiquitous occurrence of 1,4-dioxane, while industrial activities, e.g. resin manufacturing, also contribute considerably to the elevated concentrations of 1,4-dioxane. The estimated risk quotients were in the range of <1.5 × 10-4 for ecological risk, <5.0 × 10-3 by oral exposure and < 5.0 × 10-2 by inhalation exposure for health risk, illustrating limited ecological harm to water environment or chronic toxicity to human health. For carcinogenic risk, 1,4-Dioxane presented a mean risk of 1.8 × 10-6 by oral exposure, which slightly surpassed the recommended acceptable levels of U.S. EPA (<10-6), and risk from inhalation exposure could be negligible. The pervasiveness in drinking water, low removal efficiencies during water treatment processes, and suspected health impacts, highlighted the necessity to set related water quality standards of 1,4-dioxane in order to improve water environment in China.

Distribution and diversity of aquatic insects in different water bodies of Qatar / Distribuição e diversidade de insetos aquáticos em diferentes corpos de água do Catar

Aquatic insect fauna remains an important tool for bio indication of environmental disturbance, while maintaining a healthy aquatic system. The purpose of the study was to document and to identify the diversity and distribution patterns of aquatic insect, a highly ignored aspect from the Qatar. Following the standard procedures, the samples were collected from aquatic habitats during the period October 2015 to May 2017 on monthly basis. A total of 11,287 individuals, belonging to 6 orders were captured. Dipterans were the abundant with the percentages of 71.01 (n=8,015), while the lowest percentage was observed for Coleoptera 0.04 (n=05). Twelve insects families were identified, among these five were reported under Diptera, followed by Hemiptera (03), while Coleoptera, Tricoptera, Odonata, and Ephemeroptera were represented by single families. Among the selected localities, Dipterans were collected from 10 stations, followed by Hemiptera (9), Coleoptera (4), Odonota (4), Ephemeroptera (3) and Trichoptera (1) respectively. Among the water bodies samples, streams were the most preferred habitats (n=2,767), while drinking water pools were the least (27). Moreover, the highest Simpson diversity index of 1.48 and lowest of 0.47 was recorded for flooded sewage pool and plastic containers respectively, while the low evenness values were observed for ponds, and less than 1 Margalef's diversity values were seen for all habitats. This study documents the patterns of the diversity and distribution of aquatic insects, and provides a baseline for the future studies from Qatar.

A fauna aquática de insetos continua sendo uma ferramenta importante para a bioindicação de distúrbios ambientais, ao mesmo tempo em que mantém um sistema aquático saudável. O objetivo do estudo foi documentar e identificar a diversidade e os padrões de distribuição dos insetos aquáticos, um aspecto altamente ignorado no Catar. Seguindo os procedimentos padrão, as amostras foram coletadas em hábitats aquáticos durante o período de outubro de 2015 a maio de 2017, mensalmente. Um total de 11.287 indivíduos, pertencentes a seis ordens, foram capturados. Dípteros foram os mais abundantes, com as porcentagens de 71,01 (n = 8.015), enquanto a menor porcentagem foi observada para Coleópteros 0,04 (n = 05). Doze famílias de insetos foram identificadas, destas, cinco foram registradas sob Diptera, seguido por Hemiptera (03), enquanto Coleoptera, Tricoptera, Odonata e Ephemeroptera foram representados por famílias únicas. Dentre as localidades selecionadas, Dipterans foram coletados em 10 estações, seguidos por Hemiptera (9), Coleoptera (4), Odonota (4), Ephemeroptera (3) e Trichoptera (1), respectivamente. Entre as amostras de corpos d'água, os riachos foram os hábitats mais preferidos (n = 2.767), enquanto as piscinas de água potável foram os menos (27). Além disso, o maior índice de diversidade de Simpson de 1,48 e o menor de 0,47 foi registrado para piscina de esgoto inundada e recipientes de plástico, respectivamente, enquanto os valores de baixa uniformidade foram observados para lagoas e menos de 1 valores de diversidade de Margalef foram observados para todos os hábitats. Este estudo documenta os padrões de diversidade e distribuição de insetos aquáticos e fornece uma linha de base para os estudos futuros do Catar.

Distribution and diversity of aquatic insects in different water bodies of Qatar

Abstract Aquatic insect fauna remains an important tool for bio indication of environmental disturbance, while maintaining a healthy aquatic system. The purpose of the study was to document and to identify the diversity and distribution patterns of aquatic insect, a highly ignored aspect from the Qatar. Following the standard procedures, the samples were collected from aquatic habitats during the period October 2015 to May 2017 on monthly basis. A total of 11,287 individuals, belonging to 6 orders were captured. Dipterans were the abundant with the percentages of 71.01 (n=8,015), while the lowest percentage was observed for Coleoptera 0.04 (n=05). Twelve insects families were identified, among these five were reported under Diptera, followed by Hemiptera (03), while Coleoptera, Tricoptera, Odonata, and Ephemeroptera were represented by single families. Among the selected localities, Dipterans were collected from 10 stations, followed by Hemiptera (9), Coleoptera (4), Odonota (4), Ephemeroptera (3) and Trichoptera (1) respectively. Among the water bodies samples, streams were the most preferred habitats (n=2,767), while drinking water pools were the least (27). Moreover, the highest Simpson diversity index of 1.48 and lowest of 0.47 was recorded for flooded sewage pool and plastic containers respectively, while the low evenness values were observed for ponds, and less than 1 Margalefs diversity values were seen for all habitats. This study documents the patterns of the diversity and distribution of aquatic insects, and provides a baseline for the future studies from Qatar.

Resumo A fauna aquática de insetos continua sendo uma ferramenta importante para a bioindicação de distúrbios ambientais, ao mesmo tempo em que mantém um sistema aquático saudável. O objetivo do estudo foi documentar e identificar a diversidade e os padrões de distribuição dos insetos aquáticos, um aspecto altamente ignorado no Catar. Seguindo os procedimentos padrão, as amostras foram coletadas em hábitats aquáticos durante o período de outubro de 2015 a maio de 2017, mensalmente. Um total de 11.287 indivíduos, pertencentes a seis ordens, foram capturados. Dípteros foram os mais abundantes, com as porcentagens de 71,01 (n = 8.015), enquanto a menor porcentagem foi observada para Coleópteros 0,04 (n = 05). Doze famílias de insetos foram identificadas, destas, cinco foram registradas sob Diptera, seguido por Hemiptera (03), enquanto Coleoptera, Tricoptera, Odonata e Ephemeroptera foram representados por famílias únicas. Dentre as localidades selecionadas, Dipterans foram coletados em 10 estações, seguidos por Hemiptera (9), Coleoptera (4), Odonota (4), Ephemeroptera (3) e Trichoptera (1), respectivamente. Entre as amostras de corpos d'água, os riachos foram os hábitats mais preferidos (n = 2.767), enquanto as piscinas de água potável foram os menos (27). Além disso, o maior índice de diversidade de Simpson de 1,48 e o menor de 0,47 foi registrado para piscina de esgoto inundada e recipientes de plástico, respectivamente, enquanto os valores de baixa uniformidade foram observados para lagoas e menos de 1 valores de diversidade de Margalef foram observados para todos os hábitats. Este estudo documenta os padrões de diversidade e distribuição de insetos aquáticos e fornece uma linha de base para os estudos futuros do Catar.

Promoted aerobic denitrification through denitrifying fungal communities: Co-occurrence patterns and treatment of low C/N micro-polluted water.

Despite the growing interest in using mixed-culture aerobic denitrifying fungal flora (mixed-CADFF) for water remediation, there is limited research on their nitrogen removal performance in low C/N polluted water bodies. To address this knowledge gap, we isolated three mixed-CADFFs from overlying water in urban lakes to evaluate their removal performance. The total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiencies were 93.60 %, 94.64 %, and 95.18 %, while the dissolved organic carbon removal efficiencies were 96.64 %, 95.12 %, and 96.70 % for mixed-CADFF LN3, LN7, and LN15, respectively in the denitrification medium under aerobic conditions at 48 h cultivation. The three mixed-CADFFs could utilize diverse types of low molecular weight carbon sources to drive the aerobic denitrification processes efficiently. The optimal C/N ratio for the mixed-CADFFs were C/N = 10, and then C/N = 15, 7, 5, and 2. The high-throughput sequencing analysis of three mixed-CADFFs indicated that Eurotiomycetes, Cystobasidiomycetes, and Sordariomycetes were the dominant class in the communities at class level. The network analysis showed that the rare fungal species, such as Scedosporium dehoogii Saitozyma, and Candida intermedia presented positively co-occurred with the TN removal and organic matter reduction capacity. Immobilization mixed-CADFFs treatment raw water experiments indicated that three mixed-CADFFs could reduce nearly 62.73 % of TN in the low C/N micro-polluted raw water treatment. Moreover, the cell density and cell metabolism indexes were also increased during the raw water treatment. This study will provides new insight into resource utilization of the mixed-culture aerobic denitrifying fungal community in field of environment restoration.

A Review of the Latest Advances in Nanoparticle-Mediated Processes for Hexavalent Chromium Remediation from Water Bodies.

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a well-known carcinogen, and hence its removal from aqueous media is an important area of research in the field of environmental engineering. Adsorptive removal and catalytic reduction are the two most common techniques applied for this purpose. In this regard, nanoparticle-mediated technology has contributed significantly. In the current review article, a systematic investigation has been carried out to find the latest developments that took place in the domain of Cr(VI) removal by nanotechnology. The major portion deals with the advancement and application of the new-age materials, such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), g-C3N4, MXenes, zero-valent iron (ZVI), and their composites, for the Cr(VI) remediation purpose. Various interesting mechanisms, as proposed by different research groups, have been covered. Applications of the nanocomposites in the real wastewater scenario have also been highlighted. Different characterization techniques often conducted in order to get insight into Cr(VI) removal process have been mentioned. Some patents related to this field have been discussed. Lastly, the future scope of the nanomaterials, current challenges, feasibility of using these nanomaterials in large-scale treatment plants, etc., have been addressed before concluding the article.

Euphlyctis Cyanophlyctis Schneider, 1799 (Amphibia: Dicroglossidae) in district Lower Dir, Pakistan / Euphlyctis Cyanophlyctis (Schneider, 1799) Amphibia: Dicroglossidae no distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão

Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis (the skittering frog) is one of the most widespread species in Pakistan. Present study was aimed to know the presence of Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis in urban and rural areas of Lower Dir, the North-western Pakistan. A total of 33 frogs were collected, including 15 from rural and 18 from urban areas. The frogs were caught by hands covered with gloves instead of using nets. The collection was managed from August to October 2016 and from April to May 2018. Morphometric analysis, coloration as well as photographs of the frogs have been provided in detail. Skittering frogs were seen frequent in swampy areas near the water bodies. These frogs were mostly seen after sunset.

Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis (a rã que desliza) é uma das espécies mais comuns no Paquistão. O presente estudo teve como objetivo conhecer a presença de Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis em áreas urbanas e rurais de Lower Dir, noroeste do Paquistão. Um total de 33 sapos foram coletados, incluindo 15 de áreas rurais e 18 de áreas urbanas. As rãs foram apanhadas com as mãos cobertas com luvas em vez de redes. A coleta foi gerenciada de agosto a outubro de 2016 e de abril a maio de 2018. Análises morfométricas, coloração e também fotografias das rãs foram fornecidas em detalhes. Rãs saltitantes foram vistas freqüentemente em áreas pantanosas próximas aos corpos d’água. Essas rãs eram vistas principalmente após o pôr do sol.

Euphlyctis Cyanophlyctis Schneider, 1799 (Amphibia: Dicroglossidae) in district Lower Dir, Pakistan

Abstract Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis (the skittering frog) is one of the most widespread species in Pakistan. Present study was aimed to know the presence of Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis in urban and rural areas of Lower Dir, the North-western Pakistan. A total of 33 frogs were collected, including 15 from rural and 18 from urban areas. The frogs were caught by hands covered with gloves instead of using nets. The collection was managed from August to October 2016 and from April to May 2018. Morphometric analysis, coloration as well as photographs of the frogs have been provided in detail. Skittering frogs were seen frequent in swampy areas near the water bodies. These frogs were mostly seen after sunset.

Resumo Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis (a rã que desliza) é uma das espécies mais comuns no Paquistão. O presente estudo teve como objetivo conhecer a presença de Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis em áreas urbanas e rurais de Lower Dir, noroeste do Paquistão. Um total de 33 sapos foram coletados, incluindo 15 de áreas rurais e 18 de áreas urbanas. As rãs foram apanhadas com as mãos cobertas com luvas em vez de redes. A coleta foi gerenciada de agosto a outubro de 2016 e de abril a maio de 2018. Análises morfométricas, coloração e também fotografias das rãs foram fornecidas em detalhes. Rãs saltitantes foram vistas freqüentemente em áreas pantanosas próximas aos corpos d'água. Essas rãs eram vistas principalmente após o pôr do sol.

Euphlyctis Cyanophlyctis Schneider, 1799 (Amphibia: Dicroglossidae) in district Lower Dir, Pakistan / Euphlyctis Cyanophlyctis (Schneider, 1799) Amphibia: Dicroglossidae no distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão

Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis (the skittering frog) is one of the most widespread species in Pakistan. Present study was aimed to know the presence of Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis in urban and rural areas of Lower Dir, the North-western Pakistan. A total of 33 frogs were collected, including 15 from rural and 18 from urban areas. The frogs were caught by hands covered with gloves instead of using nets. The collection was managed from August to October 2016 and from April to May 2018. Morphometric analysis, coloration as well as photographs of the frogs have been provided in detail. Skittering frogs were seen frequent in swampy areas near the water bodies. These frogs were mostly seen after sunset.

Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis (a rã que desliza) é uma das espécies mais comuns no Paquistão. O presente estudo teve como objetivo conhecer a presença de Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis em áreas urbanas e rurais de Lower Dir, noroeste do Paquistão. Um total de 33 sapos foram coletados, incluindo 15 de áreas rurais e 18 de áreas urbanas. As rãs foram apanhadas com as mãos cobertas com luvas em vez de redes. A coleta foi gerenciada de agosto a outubro de 2016 e de abril a maio de 2018. Análises morfométricas, coloração e também fotografias das rãs foram fornecidas em detalhes. Rãs saltitantes foram vistas freqüentemente em áreas pantanosas próximas aos corpos d'água. Essas rãs eram vistas principalmente após o pôr do sol.

Variations, health risks, pollution status and possible sources of dissolved toxic metal(loid)s in stagnant water bodies located in an intensive agricultural region of Turkey.

There are many reservoirs, ponds and lakes in the Meriç-Ergene River Basin (Turkey), which is an intensive agricultural region. Since agrochemicals are extensively applied to the agricultural soils in the basin, these water bodies may be contaminated with toxic metal (loid)s (TMs). However, no study has been conducted to determine TM levels in the water bodies. In this study, levels of seven TMs (Cr, As, Cu, N, Zn, Cd and Pb) in surface water samples taken from 25 different stagnant water bodies (11 reservoirs, 12 ponds and 2 lakes) in the dry and wet seasons were measured and compared with water quality guidelines. In addition, spatial and seasonal variations, health risks, pollution status and possible sources of TMs were assessed. The mean As concentration of the lakes was significantly higher due to drainage water from paddy fields. The ponds had higher total mean TM concentration likely due to their low water volume. Surface runoff from rainfall caused the Cr, Zn, Cd, Pb and Cu concentrations to increase in the wet season. Only the mean As concentration of the lakes in the dry season was above the drinking water standards. Metal pollution indices showed low contamination of the water bodies in both seasons. Health risk indices indicated that As in the lakes in the dry season via ingestion exposure pathway may pose both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks to the residents. The results of factor and correlation analyses showed that among the studied TMs, only As originated from anthropogenic sources. The findings of this study revealed that agricultural activities caused As pollution in the lakes, while the reservoirs and ponds were not significantly affected by agricultural activities. We suggest that the levels of TMs in all water bodies should be measured at regular intervals to check the quality of surface water.

Phosphorus immobilization in water and sediment using iron-based materials: A review.

As an essential element for life, phosphorus (P) is very important for organisms. However, excessive P in water and sediment can cause eutrophication, which poses a potential risk to drinking water safety and the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, effective phosphorus-control in water and sediment is the key strategy to control eutrophication. Iron-based materials exhibit high efficiency for P immobilization due to their strong affinity with P, low cost, easy availability, and environmentally friendliness. They are promising materials for controlling P in application. This work comprehensively summarizes the recent advances on P immobilization in water and sediment by different iron-based materials, including iron (hydr)oxides, iron salts, zero-valent iron and iron-loaded materials. This review is focused on the mechanism of the processes and how they are impacted by major influencing factors. The combination of iron-containing materials with other assisting materials is a good strategy to enhance P-fixation efficiency and selectivity. Finally, the current challenges and prospects of P-control technologies based on iron-containing materials are proposed. This review provides a systemic theoretical and experimental foundation for P-immobilization in water and sediment using iron-based materials.

Cigarette butts: An overlooked source of PAHs in the environment?

Cigarette butts (CBs) are the most common littered objects in the environment and may contain high amounts of polycylic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from incomplete tobacco leave burning. But to date there is no comprehensive study on environmental emissions of PAHs by CBs. So the main aim of this study was to compare the concentration levels of 16 PAHs in freshly smoked CBs and CBs from the environment (collected from urban streets and river areas) with different exposure times to the environment. The results showed that the mean concentration levels of 4 PAHs including naphthalene, acenaphthylene, acenaphthene, and fluorene were significantly higher in the freshly smoked CB samples compared to the street samples and were the lowest in the river samples. Considering the number of CBs annually littered, considerable amounts of these 4 PAHs may be released to the environment, which may be a threat to the quality of water resources.

Health risk assessment of potentially harmful elements in subsidence water bodies using a Monte Carlo approach: An example from the Huainan coal mining area, China.

Enrichment of potentially harmful elements in surface water results in ecological risk to the surrounding environment. Assessing the environmental risk of these elements is of great importance. In this study, surface water samples from 6 different subsidence water bodies in the Huainan coal mining area were collected. The concentrations of Cu, Ni, Pb, Cd, Co, Cr, V, Fe, Mn and Zn were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and those of As and Hg were analyzed by atomic fluorescence spectrometry. Then, human health risks through the ingestion and dermal contact pathways were assessed and analyzed on the basis of a Monte Carlo simulation. The mean and 95th percentile risks were reported. The results showed that the total carcinogenic risk values in every subsidence water body summed for Cr, Ni and As via two exposure pathways were greater than the maximum acceptable level (1 × 10-4), and Xinji'er water body had the highest carcinogenic risk. Among three elements, Ni was the highest contributor to carcinogenic risk. All non-carcinogenic health risk (hazard quotients) values except for one water area of Co (Xinji'er) were less than 1; however, the total non-carcinogenic health risks of two water bodies (Xinji'er, Xinjiyi) summed for all the elements based on mean concentrations were higher than 1. Xinji'er had the highest hazard index. The extent of the impacts of the total hazard quotients followed the order of Co > As > Cd > Hg > Pb > V >Fe > Ni > Mn > Zn > Cr. Furthermore, the total hazard quotients of Co and As via ingestion pathway summed for the six subsidence water areas were greater than 1, which should be a concern.

Monitoramento e modelagem da qualidade de água em uma bacia hidrográfica semiárida / Monitoring and modeling of water quality in a semiarid watershed

RESUMO O artigo teve como objetivo apresentar uma metodologia para caracterização da qualidade de água na Bacia Hidrográfica do Açude Acarape do Meio, no semiárido brasileiro. O mapeamento do uso do solo e o monitoramento de parâmetros de qualidade de água possibilitaram a identificação de fontes poluidoras e a construção do diagnóstico da bacia. A partir da modelagem da qualidade de água, 37 km do Rio Pacoti foram classificados como classe 4, exceto sua nascente, que ficou na classe 2. As principais fontes poluidoras para a degradação dos corpos hídricos foram as deficitárias Estações de Tratamento de Esgoto (ETEs), a falta de saneamento básico na zona rural, a pecuária e a atividade agrícola. O modelo QUAL-UFMG estimou a carga de entrada de fósforo no açude em 13,7 ton.ano-1 para uma concentração de 0,56 mg.L-1 e vazão média em 1,48 m³.s-1. Os coeficientes calibrados K1, Ks, Kd, Kb, Kspo, Koi e K2 foram iguais a 0,45 d-1, 0,29 d-1, 0,68 d-1, 0,65 d-1, 0,1 d-1, 0,01 d-1 e 5,4 d-1, respectivamente. Avaliaram-se as intervenções políticas e infraestruturais na bacia em dois cenários: melhoria na eficiência de operação das ETEs e efetivação de políticas públicas, que reduziram consideravelmente a carga de fósforo.

ABSTRACT This paper aimed at presenting a methodology for evaluating the water quality at the Acarape do Meio catchment, in the Brazilian semiarid. The land use mapping and monitoring of water quality parameters enabled the identification of main polluting sources and the construction of a catchment diagnosis. According to the water quality modelling, a stretch of 37 km along the Pacoti River was classified as class 4, except for those ones located at the catchment headwater, which was classified as class 2. The main polluting sources contributing to the water degradation were the inefficient Sewage Treatment Plants, the lack of basic sanitation in rural areas, livestock and agriculture activities. The QUAL-UFMG model estimated an affluent phosphorous load at the reservoir entrance of 13.7 ton.year-1 for the concentration of 0.56 mg.L-1 and mean water discharge of 1.48 m³.s-1. The K1, Ks, Kd, Kb, Kspo, Koi and K2 coefficients were 0.45, 0.29, 0.68, 0.65, 0.1, 0.01 and 5.4 d-1, respectively. The impacts of political and infrastructural measures over the catchment were evaluated taking into account two scenarios: improvement of efficiency at Sewage Treatment Plants and implementation of effective public policies, which reduced significantly the affluent phosphorous load into the reservoir.

Organochlorine Pesticides (OCPs) in Sediment and Fish of Two Tropical Water Bodies Under Different Land Use.

In this study we quantified and compared bioaccumulated OCPs in target fish species Cichlasoma urophthalmus (Mayan cichlid) and Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia) and sediment in two lentic systems neighboring areas with different land use (Xnoha = agricultural/Mocu = nature reserve). Fish at both sites showed the same number of pesticide compounds (17) while in sediment were 17 and 20, respectively. ∑chlordane concentrations were significantly higher in Xnoha in both fish and sediment (1.0 and 0.17 µg/g, respectively). Here higher concentrations of o,p'DDT were found in fish than in sediments, this was similarly demonstrated in Mocu but to a lesser extent. The proportion of endosulfan sulfate was lower in Xnoha (<20 %) than in Mocu (<50 %) compared to the original product. Detected concentrations of ∑DDT and chlordane exceed international permissible limits. Results indicate that OCPs were present in both aquatic systems regardless of the differences in land use.

Radiation-induced cytogenetic and hematologic effects on aquatic biota within the Chernobyl exclusion zone.

During 1998-2014 the rate of chromosomal aberrations in embryo tissues of the pond snail (Lymnaea stagnalis) and root meristems of higher aquatic plants, and also hematologic indexes of mantle liquid of the adult snails and peripheral blood of fishes in water bodies within the Chernobyl exclusion zone (EZ) was studied. The absorbed dose rate for hydrobionts from water bodies of the EZ registered in a range from 0.25 to 420 µGy h(-1) and in the reference ones - up to 0.09 µGy h(-1). The level of chromosomal aberrations in the molluscs from the most contaminated water bodies of the EZ was registered within range of 18-27% and for the molluscs from the reference lakes this index was on the average 1.5% with the maximal values 2.3%. The rate of chromosomal aberrations in root meristematic cells of higher aquatic plants from the contaminated lakes of the EZ was in range of 7-17% and in the plants from reference water bodies was not exceed 2.1%. The positive correlation between chromosomal aberration rate and absorbed dose rate in the pond snail's embryos and root meristems of higher aquatic plants in water bodies of the EZ was registered. Analysis of hemolymph structure of snails from the most contaminated water bodies showed a high rate of dead and phagocytic cells as well as decrease of the young amoebocytes quantity. Hematologic research of fish allows to determine on the one hand an insignificant changes of leukogram structure, and from the other hand a high level of red cells with different abnormalities in the peripheral blood of fishes from the water bodies with high levels of radioactive contamination. It is suppose that qualitative indexes of red cells in peripheral blood of fish are more sensitive to long-term radiation impact in comparison with elements of white blood, which can be used for conducting of the hematologic monitoring of radioactive contaminated water bodies.

Effect of temporal lakes on avifaunal composition at the Southeast of Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, Mexico / Efecto de las lagunas temporales sobre la composición de la avifauna al Sureste del Istmo de Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, México

Oaxaca hosts one of the greatest biodiversity in México, occupying first place in avian diversity compared to other regions of the country. However, the area is undergoing serious problems such as high deforestation rates, soil erosion and over exploitation and extinction of species. These factors have all contributed to the current loss of biodiversity. Also, biological inventories are still incomplete. One of the least explored sites is the semiarid zone of Tehuantepec isthmus, around the locality of Santa Maria del Mar, Oaxaca, México. The area includes floodable grasslands, mangrove areas and dry forest, providing a range of potential habitats for different species. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of temporal lakes on spatial and temporal composition of the avifauna in Santa Maria del Mar, in order to generate information regarding this group within the region and the state, and to understand the importance of flood areas for resident and transitory birds. We conducted 12 avifauna surveys between July 2006 and June 2008, and established two transects of 2km length in each of four habitat types (beach, grassland, dry forest, and mangrove). We found a total of 75 species, corresponding to 16 orders and 30 families. Within an area of 26km², we significantly found 10.1% of the total number of bird species recorded for the entire state, and 6.6% of the total reported in Mexico. The families most represented were: Ardeidae, Laridae and Scolopacidae. Over the entire study period, dry forest was the most diverse habitat; followed by mangrove, grassland and the beach. Of all the species recorded, 38.6% were found at the edge or in the temporal lakes. We found a significant difference in species composition between seasons in the grassland, but no difference in the other habitats. Our results showed a significant effect of temporary lakes on avian diversity during the wet season; it also demonstrated the importance of grassland conservation given its relevance for presence of waterbirds. We suggested a continued and more intense monitoring; and proposed the designation of the area as an important Conservation Bird Area (AiCA).

Oaxaca alberga una biodiversidad de las más grandes en México, ocupando el primer lugar en diversidad de aves si se le compara con otras regiones del país. Sin embargo, el área sufre serios problemas tales como altas tasas de deforestación, erosión de suelo y sobre explotación y extinción de especies. Todos estos factores han contribuido con la actual pérdida de diversidad biológica. Además, los inventarios biológicos aún están incompletos. Una de las zonas menos exploradas es la parte semiárida del istmo de Tehuantepec, en los alrededores de la localidad de Santa María del Mar, Oaxaca, México. El área incluye pastizales inundables, áreas de manglar y de selva seca, y provee de una gama de hábitat potenciales para diversas especies. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar el efecto de las lagunas temporales en la composición espacial y temporal de la avifauna en Santa María del Mar, con el propósito de generar información relacionada con este grupo dentro de la región y del estado, además de comprender la importancia de las áreas inundables para las aves residentes y migratorias. Entre julio 2006 y junio 2008 realizamos 12 monitoreos de la avifauna, y establecimos dos transectos de 2km de longitud para cada uno de los cuatro tipos de hábitat (playa, pastizal, selva seca y manglar). Encontramos un total de 75 especies, correspondendiendo a 16 órdenes y 30 familias. Dentro de un área de 26km², de manera significativa registramos el 10.1% del total de aves registradas para todo el estado y el 6.6% del total de especies registradas para México. Las familias mejor representadas fueron: Ardeidae, Laridae y Scolopacidae. Para todo el periodo de estudio, la selva seca fue el hábitat más diverso, seguido por el manglar, el pastizal abierto y la playa. Del total de especies registradas, el 38.6% se encontraron en el borde o dentro de lagunas temporales. Encontramos una diferencia significativa en la composición de especies entre temporadas en el pastizal, pero no se encontró diferencia entre el resto de los hábitat. Nuestros resultados muestran un efecto significativo de las lagunas temporales sobre la diversidad de la avifauna durante la temporada lluviosa; también evidencian la importancia de la conservación de los pastizales, dada su relevancia para la presencia de aves acuáticas. Sugerimos realizar un monitoreo continuo e intensivo, y proponemos que la zona sea designada como un área de importancia para la Conservación de las Aves (AiCA).

Resolução CONAMA 357/2005: análise espacial e temporal de não conformidades em rios e reservatórios do estado de São Paulo de acordo com seus enquadramentos (2005-2009) / CONAMA Framework Resolution 357/2005: spatial and temporal analysis of water quality legal compliances in rivers and reservoirs from São Paulo state, Brazil (2005-2009)

A Resolução CONAMA 357/2005 estabeleceu condições de qualidade para o enquadramento dos sistemas aquáticos no Brasil. Essa pesquisa avaliou os níveis de não conformidade entre a qualidade de rios e reservatórios do estado de São Paulo e o seu enquadramento para algumas variáveis. Foram analisados dados (n=43.897) de fósforo total, oxigênio dissolvido, nitrato, turbidez e Demanda Bioquímica de Oxigênio de 360 pontos amostrais nas 22 UGRHIs (Unidades de Gerenciamento de Recursos Hídricos) de SP. A situação se apresentou mais crítica para o fósforo total e o oxigênio dissolvido, sobretudo nas UGRHIs industriais. Entre 2005 e 2009, não houve melhoria significativa em relação aos resultados desconformes para algumas variáveis. Há necessidade de investimentos no tratamento de esgotos em nível terciário e de medidas para atenuar a geração de cargas difusas.

The CONAMA Framework Resolution 357/2005 fixed the conditions for establishing water quality categories in Brazilian aquatic systems. We assessed the levels of non-conformity among the water quality in rivers and reservoirs from São Paulo State (SP, Brazil) and their framework. We analyzed data (n=43,897) from total phosphorus, dissolved oxygen, nitrate, turbidity and Biochemical Oxygen Demand of 360 sampling sites within the 22 UGRHI (Water Resources Management Units) in SP from 2005 to 2009. The situation was unsatisfactory for total phosphorus and dissolved oxygen, mainly in the industrial UGRHI. There was no significant water quality improvement in relation to some of the studied variables within these five years, which indicates the need for directing investments on tertiary domestic wastewater treatment and mitigation of non-point pollution loads.

Integração entre curvas de permanência de quantidade e qualidade da água como uma ferramenta para a gestão eficiente dos recursos hídricos / Integration between cumulative frequency curves for water quantity and quality as a tool for effective water resources management

A garantia dos usos múltiplos da água, dos serviços ambientais e do equilíbrio ecológico depende de uma combinação adequada entre aspectos quantitativos e qualitativos dos rios. A presente pesquisa descreve aplicações de uma nova abordagem das curvas de permanência de vazões, que foram associadas a curvas de frequência acumulada de qualidade da água. Foram compilados dados de fósforo total (2005 a 2009) e vazão média mensal (1959 a 2003) dos rios Paraíba do Sul e Sorocaba para ilustrar o conceito. A integração entre as curvas de quantidade e qualidade se mostrou desejável por oferecer subsídios a concessões de outorga, à cobrança pelo uso da água, ao monitoramento ambiental e ao enquadramento dos cursos de água. Outro aspecto positivo é que essas curvas podem incorporar variações no clima e no uso e ocupação do solo, o que permite o estabelecimento de cenários ambientais.

The security of the different water uses, environmental services and ecological balance depends upon a well-weighted combination between quantitative and qualitative aspects in rivers. This research describes applications of a new approach of the frequency curves for discharge, which were associated with frequency curves for water quality. Data on total phosphorus (2005 to 2009) and monthly average flow (1959 to 2003) from the Paraíba do Sul and Sorocaba Rivers were compiled to further illustrate the concept. The integration between the curves of water quantity and quality was considered desirable as it can aid in the planning of water concessions, charging for water uses, environmental monitoring and establishment of water quality standards and framework. Moreover, these curves can accommodate variations in climate and land use, allowing the establishment of environmental scenarios.

Avaliação da sustentabilidade ambiental do uso de esgoto doméstico tratado na piscicultura / Environmental sustainability evaluation of the treated sewage use in aquaculture

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a sustentabilidade ambiental do uso de esgoto doméstico tratado na piscicultura por meio do Índice de Sustentabilidade Ambiental para Reúso em Piscicultura (ISA RP), do Índice de Qualidade de Água para Reúso em Piscicultura (IQA RP) e do custo ambiental (entropia). Observou-se, por meio do custo ambiental, que a piscicultura convencional causou a deterioração da qualidade da água que foi utilizada. Constatou-se que o sistema de piscicultura utilizando esgoto tratado, sem usar aeração, não causou efeito deletério significante à qualidade da água de reúso (efluente da estação de tratamento de esgoto - ETE). O sistema de piscicultura usando esgoto tratado, com aeração, resultou na melhoria de sua qualidade, quando comparado com o efluente da estação de tratamento, significando que essa prática resultou em um polimento no líquido utilizado. Ambos os sistemas de reúso de águas mostraram-se ambientalmente sustentáveis, o que indica a potencialidade do uso de esgoto doméstico tratado como fonte de água e alimento natural para a piscicultura.

This work aimed to evaluate the environmental sustainability of the treated sewage reuse on aquaculture by using the Environmental Sustainability Index of Aquaculture Reuse (ESI AR), Water Quality Index of Aquaculture Reuse (WQI AR) and environmental cost (entropy). For conventional aquaculture, a water quality deterioration of the fish tanks was observed by the environmental cost. When treated sewage was used in tanks without external aeration, it was not verified a remarkable water quality deterioration. However, for the tanks externally aerated and fed with treated sewage there was a water quality improvement, in other words a polishing step was taking place. All the systems analyzed showed to be environmentally sustainable, which indicates that the treated sewage can be considered a good water source for aquaculture.