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Since the Industrial Revolution, increasing atmospheric CO 2 concentrations have had a substantial negative impact influence on coastal ecosystems because of direct effects including ocean acidification and indirect effects such as extreme rainfall events. Using a two-factor crossover indoor simulation experiment, this study examined the combined effects of acidification and hyposaline stress on Thalassia hemprichii. Seawater acidification increased the photosynthetic pigment content of T. hemprichii leaves and promoted seagrass growth rate. Hyposaline stress slowed down seagrass growth and had an impact on the osmotic potential and osmoregulatory substance content of seagrass leaves. Acidification and salinity reduction had significant interaction effects on the photosynthesis rate, photosynthetic pigment content, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and osmotic potential of T. hemprichii, but not on the growth rate. Overall, these findings have shown that the hyposaline stress inhibitory effect on the T. hemprichii physiological performance and growth may be reduced by acidification., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are an emerging class of persistent organic pollutants that are widespread in aquatic ecosystems and pose a serious threat to aquatic organisms. It is thus crucial to explore the toxicity mechanisms of PFAS to submerged macrophytes and biofilms. In this study, Vallisneria natans (V. natans) was exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS). Results showed that PFAS induced the excessive production of reactive oxygen species, triggering antioxidant responses. V. natans exhibited an improved stress tolerance by altering the biosynthesis of several plant secondary metabolites and the histidine, arginine, proline pathways in response to PFAS exposure. Moreover, PIP1-1, PIP2-2, SLAH1 and SLAH2 genes were upregulated, indicating the activation of aquaporins and slow-type anion channels. The uptake of PFOA and PFOS by V. natans was 41.74 % and 52.31 %, respectively. Notably, PFAS bound to functional proteins (GSTF10), promoting the detoxification of plants. Exposure to PFAS also altered the structure of biofilms by inducing the synthesis of large amounts of polysaccharides and proteins. The diversity and richness of the microbial community within periphytic biofilms changed significantly. These results provide a comprehensive description of the responses of aquatic plants and periphytic biofilms to PFAS and the removal mechanism of PFAS, contributing to the environmental risk assessments and removal of PFAS in aquatic ecosystems., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

The effects of cadmium (Cd) have been investigated in an aquatic plant Ottelia alismoides grown under low CO 2 . Under low CO 2 , no Cd treated O. alismoides operated three carbon dioxide-concentrating mechanisms (CCMs) efficiently, including HCO 3 - acquisition, C4 and CAM photosynthesis. After 4 days of treatment with 200 μM and 2000 μM Cd, O. alismoides exhibited an elevated Cd accumulation along with the increasing Cd concentration. Both Cd treatments induced appreciable phytotoxicities in O. alismoides. The leaves showed chlorosis symptoms and the anatomy as well as chloroplast ultrastructure were obviously damaged. Significant decreases in the content of pigments, chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm and Yield of PS II) and carbon isotope ratio (δ 13 C) were measured in leaf extracts of O. alismoides grown with both concentrations of Cd. In addition, the pH-drift technique showed that both Cd-treated O. alismoides plants could not uptake HCO 3 - . The maximum and minimum acidity in Cd-exposed O. alismoides were greatly decreased and the diurnal change of acidity was absent in both Cd treated plants. Furthermore, significant decreases in ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco), pyruvate phosphate dikinase (PPDK) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) activities were also found at Cd treated O. alismoides plants, indicating the disturbance within C4 cycle. The alterations in the functionality of CCMs in O. alismoides induced by Cd might be related with the inhibition of the enzymes such as carbonic anhydrase (CA) and PEPC involved in inorganic carbon fixation, and the destruction of chloroplasts, as well as the re-allocation of energy and nutrients involved in CCMs and Cd detoxification., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The presence of tetracycline is ubiquitous and has adverse effects on aquatic systems. A hydroponic experiment was conducted to investigate the ecological sensitivity of Hydrocharis dubia (Bl.) Backer and Trapa bispinosa Roxb. Exposed to different concentrations of tetracycline (0, 0.1, 1, 10, 30 and 50 mg/L) for one day (1D) and 14 days (14D). The results showed that after 1D of tetracycline exposure, the physiological indices of H. dubia had no remarkable change except for proline which was significantly stimulated under 0.1 mg/L tetracycline. For T. bispinosa, guaiacol peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity and protein and proline content were notably promoted under different concentrations of tetracycline, but PPO activity was significantly decreased in 50 mg/L. After 14D, tetracycline caused no harm to the growth and protein content of H. dubia, but negatively influenced lipid peroxidation product and chlorophyll content in H. dubia under high tetracycline concentrations. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and POD activity of H. dubia significantly increased at high tetracycline concentrations, while catalase (CAT) and PPO activity significantly decreased. APX activity in H. dubia increased with tetracycline concentrations at low tetracycline concentrations. For T. bispinosa, high concentrations of tetracycline application significantly inhibited its growth and the content of protein and chlorophyll. SOD, POD, CAT, and PPO activity of T. bispinosa were induced under different concentrations of tetracycline and no lipid peroxidation was observed. APX activity in T. bispinosa was significantly inhibited at high tetracycline concentrations. The results suggest that tetracycline can cause oxidative damage in H. dubia but harm the metabolism process of T. bispinosa without inducing oxidative damage. Overall, the sensitivity of T. bispinosa exposed to tetracycline exposure is higher than that of H. dubia., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The presence of surfactants may affect the bioavailability of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. A hydroponic experiment was conducted to investigate the response of Hydrocharis dubia (Bl.) Backer to different concentrations of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS), naphthalene (NAP) and their mixture (0.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg/L) for 14 days and 28 days. The results showed that LAS had a greater toxic effect on H. dubia growth than NAP at treatment concentrations of 0.5-20 mg/L. The combined effect of LAS and NAP was damaging to H. dubia at concentrations of LAS + NAP ≥5 + 5 mg/L. When LAS + NAP ≥10 + 10 mg/L, the underground parts of H. dubia suffered more significant damage than the aboveground parts. Under the treatments with LAS, NAP and their mixture, H. dubia experienced oxidative stress. Soluble proteins and antioxidant enzymes were the main substances protecting H. dubia from LAS stress, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) were the main protective enzymes. When exposed to NAP, H. dubia growth was stimulated and promoted at the same time. In the short-term treatment (14 d), catalase (CAT) activity was sensitive to NAP stimulation, and soluble proteins and SOD were the main protective substances produced. Soluble sugars, SOD and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) played important protective roles during the longer exposure time (28 d). The physiological response of H. dubia exposed to the combined toxicants was weaker than the response to exposure to individual toxicants. The responses of SOD and CAT activity were positive in the short term (14 d), and these were the main protective enzymes. As the exposure time increased (28 d), the plant antioxidant system responded negatively., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest All authors have no any potential sources of conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The restoration of submerged plants is critical for the reconstruction of eutrophic lake ecosystems. The growth of submerged plants is influenced by many factors. For the first time in this study, the effects of silicate-mineral maifanite supplement on the growth, physiological and phytochemical process of Vallisneria spiralis (V. spiralis) were investigated by an outdoor PVC barrel experiment, to provide a technical reference for further applications in aquatic ecological restoration. The results show that the maifanite could significantly promote the growth of V. spiralis. Specifically, the biomass, height, number of leaves, leaf width, root length, and root activity of V. spiralis in the maifanite-supplemented group were better than those of the control (P < 0.05). Moreover, the modified maifanite group performed better than the raw maifanite group (P < 0.05). The photosynthetic pigment, root activity, and the malondialdehyde and peroxidase activity of the maifanite-treated V. spiralis were better than those of the control to some extent. It was found that maifanite contained abundant major and trace elements, which are required for the growth of V. spiralis. It is concluded that maifanite is beneficial to the growth of V. spiralis and can be further applied to the ecological restoration of eutrophic lakes., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Information on silver nanoparticle (AgNP) phytotoxicity on seagrasses is provided for the first time. Toxic effects of environmentally relevant AgNP concentrations on Halophila stipulacea were assessed to identify sensitive biomarkers, to determine threshold effect concentrations and to evaluate potential risks. Potential alterations in the cytoskeleton, endoplasmic reticulum, cell ultrastructure and viability, oxidative stress parameters and elongation in H. stipulacea leaves exposed to AgNP concentrations ranging from 0.0002 to 0.2 mg L -1 for 8 days were examined. The first signs of actin filament (AF) response in differentiating cells, exhibiting disorientation and slight bundling, were observed on the 4th day at 0.0002 mg L -1 , while at the end of the experiment and at the higher concentrations, AFs were extremely bundled. Endoplasmic reticulum was affected in meristematic and differentiating cells; massive aggregations and loss of the "grainy" structure were observed, initially on the 6th day at 0.002 mg L -1 . Effects on microtubules were detected on the last day at 0.2 mg L -1 . An increase in H 2 O 2 levels on the 4th and/or 6th day even at 0.0002 mg L -1 was followed by a decrease on, or up to the last day. On the 6th day at the lowest concentration, elevated malondialdehyde content, and superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activity were detected, indicating oxidative damage and antioxidant defense mechanism activation. Dead epidermal cells mainly occurred at 0.02 and 0.2 mg L -1 , while no dead vein cells were detected. A significant inhibition in leaf elongation was observed only at 0.2 mg L -1 . Therefore, AF disturbance in differentiating leaf cells, being a susceptible response parameter, could be regarded as an early warning indicator of risk posed by AgNPs to H. stipulacea meadows, while most of the remaining parameters examined also constitute useful biomarkers. The lowest observed effect concentration (0.0002 mg L -1 ), being within the range of environmentally relevant AgNPs concentrations, suggests the possibility of negative impacts of AgNPs on seagrass health. A risk quotient of 1.33 was calculated, indicating that AgNPs may pose a significant potential risk to the coastal environment. The data presented highlight the importance of future research to further investigate the seagrass-AgNP interactions, stress the need for a refinement of the environmental risk assessment of AgNPs and could be utilized for the design of biomonitoring programs for rational management of the coastal environment., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The symbiosis between Vallisneria denseserrulata and indigenous Bacillus sp. XZM was investigated for arsenic removal for the first time. It was found that the native bacterium was able to reduce arsenic toxicity to the plant by producing higher amount of extra cellular polymeric substances (EPS), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and siderosphore. Interestingly, V. denseserrulata-Bacillus sp. XZM partnership showed significantly higher arsenic uptake and removal efficiency. The shift in FT-IR spectra indicated the involvement of amide, carboxyl, hydroxyl and thiol groups in detoxification of arsenic, and the existence of an arsenic metabolizing process in V. denseserrulata leaves. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images further confirmed that the bacterium colonized on plant roots and facilitated arsenic uptake by plant under inoculation condition. In plant, most of the arsenic existed as As(III) (85%) and was massively (>77%) found in vacuole of particularly leaves cells. Thus, these findings are highly suggested for arsenic remediation in the constructed wetlands., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

This study investigated the allelopathic effects of Microcystis aeruginosa (M. aeruginosa) extracts and exudates on the physiological responses, photosynthetic activity, and microbial structure of biofilms on leaves of Vallisneria natans (V. natans). By measuring physiological and photosynthetic indices, the results showed that M. aeruginosa allelochemicals inhibited photosynthesis, oxidative stress and antioxidant system stress response in the biofilms of V. natans leaves. Multifractal analysis found that the surface topography of V. natans leaves was altered due to the allelochemicals found in M. aeruginosa. Microbial diversity on the leaves was analyzed using high-throughput sequencing, and the results showed that M. aeruginosa exudates had a stronger effects on the microbial community structure of biofilms compared to extracts. These findings highlight how cyanobacterial allelochemicals induce negative effects on submerged macrophytes., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Plastic debris of all sizes has been detected in marine, terrestrial and freshwater habitats. Effects of plastic debris on macrophytes have hardly been studied, despite their importance in aquatic ecosystems. We provide the first experimental study exploring nano- and microplastic effects on the growth of sediment-rooted macrophytes. Myriophyllum spicatum and Elodea sp. were exposed to sediments amended with six doses of polystyrene (PS) nanoplastic (50-190 nm, up to 3% sediment dry weight) and PS microplastic (20-500 μm, up to 10% dry weight) under laboratory conditions. Both macrophyte species were tested for changes in root and shoot dry weight (DW), relative growth rate (RGR), shoot to root ratio (S:R), main shoot length and side shoot length. Microplastics did not produce consistent dose-effect relationships on the endpoints tested, except that main shoot length was reduced for M. spicatum with increasing microplastic concentration. Nanoplastic significantly reduced S:R for both macrophytes as a result of increased root biomass compared to shoot biomass. Nanoplastic also caused a decrease in M. spicatum main shoot length; however, shoot biomass was not affected. Elodea sp. side shoot length, root and shoot biomass and RGR were positively correlated to the nanoplastic concentration. All effects occurred at higher than environmentally realistic concentrations, suggesting no immediate implications for ecological risks. Our study did not aim for the elucidation of the exact mechanistic processes that cause the effects, however, particle size seems to play an important factor. CAPSULE: Nano- and microplastics affect growth of sediment-rooted macrophytes., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Arsenic contamination of water is a global concern due to its heavy threat to human health. In this study, the submerged macrophyte Vallisneria natans (Lour.) Hara was used to remove environmentally relevant concentrations of arsenic in the binary As(III)/As(V) system. The concentrations of total arsenic (tAs) and As(III) in water dropped rapidly within 3 days, while As(V) first increased slightly within 3 days and then gradually decreased. About 1.2% dimethylarsinate (DMA) was detected at the 14th day of treatment. These findings indicated that As(III) could be oxidized to As(V) and methylated to DMA in water with V. natans. In relation to V. natans, both tAs and As(V) were much higher in roots compared to leaves. Arsenate was the predominant species (≥ 95.65 ± 0.10%) in roots, and As(III) was only found at the 14th day (3.45-6.96 mg kg -1 ). In leaves, As(III) significantly increased (P < 0.05) as the treatment duration increased. The proportions of As(V) (27.99-40.03%) were lower than those of As(III) and arsenobetaine (AsB) was detected (0.52-1.87 mg kg -1 ) after 7 d. The results of arsenic speciation demonstrated that the transformation of arsenic species in V. natans included As(V) reduction and As(III) methylation to AsB. There were a decrease in chlorophyll content, and an increase in MDA level and antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and POD) activities. The MDA level was much higher in leaves than roots, whereas the activities of SOD, CAT, and POD were the opposite, suggesting their possible role in arsenic resistance and detoxification. Our results indicate the potential of V. natans in phytoremediation of arsenic-contaminated water., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The herbicide diquat dibromide is used in North America to manage nuisance macrophytes. However, its effect on native macrophytes is less clear and it could cause indirect effects on other aquatic biota. This study determined the sensitivity of both native and non-native macrophytes grown in test systems with varying complexity to diquat dibromide applied directly to water following label directions. In an outdoor mesocosm experiment and single species greenhouse concentration-response tests, Elodea canadensis Michx., Myriophyllum spicatum L., Ceratophyllum demersum L. and Hydrocharis morsus-ranae L. were exposed to a range of diquat dibromide concentrations (4.7 - 1153 µg/L), corresponding to 0.4 - 100% of the recommended label rate of the formulated product. The mesocosm experiment contained all four plant taxa in the same system along with caged amphipods (Hyalella azteca Saus.), tadpoles (Lithobates pipiens Schreber), phytoplankton and periphyton; however, this study focuses on the macrophytes only. In both test systems, severe direct effects of diquat dibromide on macrophytes were detected, with almost 100% mortality of all macrophytes in both test systems at 74 µg/L. The most sensitive species in the single species tests, E. canadensis, showed almost 100% mortality at concentrations below the HPLC-based method detection limit of 5 µg/L. Effects occurred very rapidly and showed no difference in severity between native and non-native macrophytes or complexity of test systems. These results suggest that diquat dibromide could be applied at a considerably lower label rate, depending on the characteristics of the waterbody, while still achieving effective control of nuisance macrophytes., (Crown Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Water contamination by nickel (Ni) has become an increasing concern in recent decades. Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle has been recognized as a promising accumulator of several potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in phytoremediation, but its Ni-accumulation characteristics and its mechanisms of tolerance to Ni remain largely unknown. This research investigated the biochemical responses of leaves and stems of H. verticillata to various concentrations of Ni (5, 10, 15, 20, and 40 μM) over periods of 7, 14, or 21 days. Plants accumulated considerable Ni to a maximum amount of 1080 mg kg -1 dry weight (DW) with a maximum bioconcentration factor of 1100; thus, high Ni accumulation was detected in H. verticillata. Low concentrations (5-15 μM) or short durations (less than 14 days) of Ni exposure might promote plant growth without adversely affecting normal metabolism. After peaking at day 14, a decline in bioaccumulation was unexpectedly observed as a long-term effect of Ni toxicity. Malondialdehyde content and the activities of defense-related enzymes changed in a similar pattern after treatment with Ni, increasing with both Ni concentration and exposure time to a peak (often at 5-15 μM on day 14), followed by a decline. Through a comprehensive analysis of all the test parameters, the tolerance thresholds were determined to be > 40.0 μM, 24.0 μM, and 15.8 μM at days 7, 14, and 21, respectively. Hydrilla verticillata could be a "high-potential accumulator" capable of decontaminating aquatic bodies polluted by Ni within the threshold range., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Present study deals with the effect of 24 h pre-incubation with exogenous anthocyanins (ANTH), extracted from red cabbage leaves, on key metabolic processes (photosynthesis and respiration) and pro-/antioxidant balance in the aquatic macrophyte Egeria densa (Planch.) Casp., Hydrocharitaceae family, treated with Cd and Mn (in sulfate form) at a concentration of 100 μmol. After five days of metal treatments, Cd was accumulated and the damage caused to metabolic processes was stronger than Mn. In Cd-treated leaves, the protein level, chlorophyll concentration and maximal photochemical efficiency of PS II decreased twofold, and net-photosynthesis was significantly inhibited, whereas lipid peroxidation and H 2 O 2 production increased. In turn, protective responses developed, including an increase in the total soluble thiols, alternative respiratory pathway capacity and the activity of superoxide dismutase and peroxidases. Pre-incubation in the ANTH-enriched extract caused an increase in foliar ANTH content, enhanced Cd and reduced Mn uptake into the tissue. A decrease in the level of oxidative reactions, an increase in the protein and chlorophyll concentration compared to the control values and a partial improvement of the photosynthetic parameters confirmed the ability of ANTH to reduce Cd-induced damage effects and to mitigate ROS-driven stress reactions. Stimulation of catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activity, an alternative respiration capacity and non-enzymatic antioxidant (carotenoids, ascorbate and proline) synthesis by ANTH were also revealed. These data suggest that ANTH-enriched extract from red cabbage leaves has a protective action against metal toxicity in Egeria plants., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Accumulation and bioindication of trace elements were compared in three seagrasses growing in the Mediterranean Sea: Posidonia oceanica, Cymodocea nodosa and Halophila stipulacea. The levels of the elements As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn were investigated in water, sediments, and roots, rhizomes and leaves of seagrasses. Results showed that seagrasses can accumulate comparable levels of trace elements, but P. oceanica and C. nodosa showed higher mean values of element accumulation. Moreover, P. oceanica and C. nodosa may accumulate high element concentrations in their leaves, whereas in H. stipulacea restricted with the bulk of trace elements in roots and rhizomes. Seagrasses reflected to a different degree the levels of several trace elements in sediments, especially P. oceanica and C. nodosa, whose use as bioindicators is recommended. The future step for an effective use of seagrasses as bioindicators of marine pollution is to set up biomonitoring networks on a large scale., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Research into sediment-seagrass tissue metal relationships has been undertaken in Sydney estuary due to the recognized role contamination plays in threats to seagrass health. Seagrass (Halophila ovalis) leaf tissue concentrations are elevated in Cu, Pb and Zn and contain the highest reported root Cr concentrations. Seagrass metal concentrations were significantly different between species H. ovalis and Zostera capricorni; between root and leaf tissue; and between sampling locations. Greatest tissue enrichment was for Pb, however metals were not enriched in seagrass relative to surficial sediment. Fine and total sediment metal concentrations were temporally consistent between collection years 2013/15, whereas root tissue metals changed between years and sites and leaf metal contents were temporally inconsistent. Extractable metal concentrations in fine sediment (<62.5 μm) showed moderate significant correlation with root tissue and a weak significant relationship with leaf tissue, whereas total sediment metal showed no such relationships. Management implications are provided., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Aluminate is generally used as a flocculant in water and wastewater treatment processes, but the residual aluminum (Al) may have toxic effects on aquatic organisms when the concentration accumulates beyond a threshold level. The in situ and laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate the impact of residual Al on submerged macrophytes in West Lake, Hangzhou, China, which receives Al flocculant-purified water diverted from the Qiantang River. The responses of Vallisneria natans and Hydrilla verticillata were investigated based on their morphological and physiological parameters in pot culture and aquarium simulation experiments. In the pot culture experiments, the biomass, seedling number, plant height, stolon number, stolon length, and root weight were significantly higher at a site located 150m from the inlet compared with those at a site located 15m from the inlet (P < 0.05), thereby indicating that the residual Al significantly inhibited the morphological development of V. natans and H. verticillata. The variations in the chlorophyll-a, protein, and malondialdehyde contents of the two species in both the pot culture and aquarium simulation experiments also demonstrated that the two submerged macrophytes were stressed by residual Al. V. natans and H. verticillata accumulated 0.052-0.227mg of Al per gram of plant biomass (fresh weight, mg/g FW) and 0.045-0.205mg Al/g FW in the in situ experiments, respectively, where the amounts of Al were significantly higher in the plants in the treatment aquaria during the laboratory experiments than those in the controls. These results may have important implications for the restoration of submerged macrophytes and ecological risk assessments in Al-exposed lakes. It is recommended that the Al salt concentration used for the control of lake eutrophication should be reduced to an appropriate level., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The spatio-temporal distribution of perchlorate in water sources around an ammonium perchlorate production unit and its toxicity response on a dominant aquatic plant, Hydrilla verticillata are reported in this study. Samples (n=453) from ground water (open well) and surface water sources within 5km from the production unit over a period of 12 months (2014, June - 2015, May) were screened for ClO 4 - . During the period, ClO 4 - concentration in ground water samples close to the production unit increased to >40,000μg/L, and ClO 4 - was detected at 1740μg/L in well water 1.6km away from the production unit. A community pond in the area also showed an increase in ClO 4 - level up to 29,000μg/L. In all water sources, ClO 4 - level was maximum during the rainy season (July, monsoon). A natural degradation of ClO 4 - was not observed in the area as evident from its persistent level and spreading to more areas. H. verticillata, the dominant vegetation in the pond exhibited severe toxic response like massive decay and loss of photosynthetic pigments such as chlorophyll and carotene due to ClO 4 - exposure. The plant accumulated ClO 4 - up to 60 ± 0.8mg/kg wet weight with a Bio-Concentration Factor 2.06±0.005. This is the first report on spatio-temporal distribution of ClO 4 - at higher levels in a natural environment and its toxicity response to plants under natural condition., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Microcystin-LR (MCLR) and copper are commonly found in eutrophic water bodies because of eutrophic run-offs, cyanobacterial blooms, and copper algicide applications. However, the ecotoxicological risk of their combination remains unknown. This study investigated the effect of MCLR, Cu, and their mixture on the growth and physiological responses of Vallisneria natans. Results showed that the combined toxicity of them was concentration dependent. Synergistic effects were elicited at low concentrations of MCLR and Cu exposure (≤0.25+0.64mg/L). Additive or antagonistic effects were induced at higher concentrations. Single and combined exposures could induce oxidative stress, such as increased superoxide anion radical levels. To cope with oxidative stress, V. natans could activate their antioxidant defense systems, such as enhanced superoxide dismutase production and changes in peroxidase activities. Exposure to combined MCLR and Cu (even only with 0.005+0.041mg/L) adversely affected their antioxidant defense systems. As a consequence, malondialdehyde levels significantly increased. The interaction of MCLR and Cu could also significantly increase the bioaccumulations of MCLR and Cu. This increase could be accounted for their synergistic toxic effects on V. natans. Our results suggested that the exacerbated ecological hazard of MCLR and Cu with environmental concentrations may harm aquatic ecosystems., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Submersed freshwater macrophytes are considered as relevant indicators for use in bulk bottom sediment contact tests. The purpose of this study was to estimate the validity of endpoints of aquatic plant Elodea canadensis for laboratory genotoxicity testing of natural bottom sediments. The inherent level of chromosome abnormalities (on artificial sediments) in roots of E. canadensis under laboratory conditions was lower than the percentage of abnormal cells in bulk sediments from the Yenisei River. The percentage of abnormal cells in roots of E. canadensis was more sensitive to the presence of genotoxic agents in laboratory contact tests than in the natural population of the plant. The spectra of chromosomal abnormalities that occur in roots of E. canadensis under natural conditions in the Yenisei River and in laboratory contact tests on the bulk bottom sediments from the Yenisei River were similar. Hence, chromosome abnormalities in roots of E. canadensis can be used as a relevant and sensitive genotoxicity endpoint in bottom sediment-contact tests., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

We investigated the phytoremediation potential of Elodea nuttallii to remove rare earth metals from contaminated water. The laboratory experiments were designed to assess the responses induced by lanthanum (5-20mgL(-1)) in E. nuttallii over a period of 7 days. The results showed that most La (approximately 85%) was associated with the cell wall. The addition of La to the culture medium reduced the concentration of K, Ca, Cu, Mg, and Mn. However, O2(·-) levels increased with a concomitant increase in the malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration as the La concentration increased, which indicated that the cells were under oxidative stress. Significant reductions in the levels of chlorophyll (Chl) a, b, and carotenoids (Car) were observed in a concentration-dependent manner. However, the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), total non-protein thiols (TNP-SH) and phytochelatins (PCs) increased for all La concentrations. The results suggested that La was toxic to E. nuttallii because it induced oxidative stress and disturbed mineral uptake. However, E. nuttallii was able to combat La induced damage via an immobilization mechanism, which involved the cell wall and the activation of non-enzymatic antioxidant., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Seagrass is particularly susceptible to environmental degradation. The objective of the study is to develop an effective bioindicator to assess human-induced effects using morphological variation and fluctuating asymmetry (FA) of seagrass. Samples were collected from eight islands situated at different distance from mainland with different human population density and therefore expected to experience different level of anthropogenic pressure. Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, nitrate, and phosphate were measured. Metals were also measured in tissues of seagrass. Metal concentrations in sediment, water, and seagrass did not exceed the quality standards required for marine life. Heterogeneity of FA was found among sites suggesting that there are some factors changing developmental instability of seagrass which is not associated to particular toxicants. This baseline study indicates that the water condition is still natural and shows no signs of metal contamination, therefore it does not cause a detectable stress on morphological variation and FA of seagrass., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Macrophytes bioaccumulate metals, the suggestion being made that they be considered for phytoremediation. However, a thorough understanding of the mechanisms of metal tolerance in these plants is necessary to allow full optimization of this approach. The present study was undertaken to gain insight into Hg and Cd accumulation and their effects in a representative macrophyte, Elodea nuttallii. Exposure to methyl-Hg (23 ng dm(-3)) had no significant effect while inorganic Hg (70 ng dm(-3)) and Cd (281 μg dm(-3)) affected root growth but did not affect shoots growth, photosynthesis, or antioxidant enzymes. Phytochelatins were confirmed as having a role in Cd tolerance in this plant while Hg tolerance seems to rely on different mechanisms. Histology and subcellular distribution revealed a localized increase in lignification, and an increased proportion of metal accumulation in cell wall over time. Proteomics further suggested that E. nuttallii was able to efficiently adapt its energy sources and the structure of its cells during Hg and Cd exposure. Storage in cell walls to protect cellular machinery is certainly predominant at environmental concentrations of metals in this plant resulting in a high tolerance highlighted by the absence of toxicity symptoms in shoots despite the significant accumulation of metals., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Light intensity can have a profound influence on the degree of phytotoxicity experienced by plants exposed to photosystem II (PSII) inhibiting herbicides. This relationship was evaluated in the submerged aquatic macrophyte Elodea canadensis exposed to three different concentrations of atrazine (510, 1000 and 2000 μg a.i./L) plus an untreated control at three different light intensities (0, 500 and 6000 lx) under static-renewal conditions for 14 days. Under 500 lx light intensity, control plants demonstrated a rapid increase in shoot length but minimal increase in dry shoot weight, suggesting limited photosynthesis. Based on shoot-length and biomass, growth was not affected by any atrazine exposure relative to controls under dark conditions (0 lx). Under low-light conditions at 500 lx, exposures to 510, 1000 and 2000 μg a.i./L atrazine significantly decreased net shoot lengths by 34%, 38% and 35%, respectively, relative to corresponding (500 lx) controls. However, atrazine exposure under this light condition did not significantly decrease biomass (dry shoot weight). Compared to 6000 lx, only approximately 8% of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) was measured under 500 lx intensity, indicating that minimal PAR was available for photosynthesis. Under optimal light conditions (6000 lx), net shoot lengths significantly decreased in the treated atrazine groups by 48%, 51% and 68%, and net dry shoot weights (biomass) were significantly decreased by 79%, 81% and 91%, respectively, relative to corresponding (6000 lx) controls. These data show that under low light conditions, atrazine-induced effects on dry shoot weight (biomass) are dependent on available PAR and active photosynthesis., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

A mesocosm study with three photosystem-II inhibitors and an equipotent mixture was performed to address the value of functional and structural endpoints in evaluating the impact of herbicides on aquatic systems. The herbicides atrazine, diuron, and isoproturon were dosed in the ratio of their relative potencies as HC30 for the single substance treatments and as 1/3 HC30 for the mixture treatment to obtain comparable effect concentrations. To investigate the effects of the three herbicides and their mixture on photosynthesis of the whole system, the physical-chemical parameters pH, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity were monitored. To address effects on photosynthesis more specifically, the photosynthetic efficiency of phytoplankton and three submersed macrophytes (Elodea canadensis, Myriophyllum spicatum, and Potamogeton lucens) were investigated applying in vivo chlorophyll fluorescence as an indicator for their activity. As a structural endpoint, the species abundance and community structure of the phytoplankton community was determined. Effects were continuously monitored over a five week period of constant exposure, and during a 3 month post-exposure period. The sensitivity, expressed as maximum effect during constant exposure, was higher for the structural parameters (total and single species abundances and PRC) than for the functional parameters. The mean coefficient of variation (CV) for the physical-chemical parameters was below 10%, for the photosynthesis measurement of the phytoplankton and macrophytes below 10 and 30%, respectively. Structural parameters, however, yielded higher variability with mean CVs for phytoplankton abundance data and single sensitive species reaching up to 96%. Effects on the phytoplankton photosynthesis measured via in vivo chlorophyll fluorescence were constant during the exposure period; whereas macrophytes recovered quickly from photosynthesis inhibition despite constant exposure. Effects on total system photosynthesis, determined via physical-chemical parameters, lasted for a shorter period than for the phytoplankton photosynthesis demonstrating the importance of the macrophytes for total primary production. Thus, the evaluation of effects on communities in model ecosystems such as micro- and mesocosms should not be based on structural endpoints only due to their comparably high inherent variability. Instead, we recommend complementing the risk assessment with data obtained from sensitive functional endpoints addressing the specific mode of action of the respective compound for the most sensitive group of organisms to avoid over-estimation of the recovery potential of the aquatic system., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The effects of Pb on photosynthetic pigments, oxidative stress and antioxidant response were assayed using biochemical and histochemical methods in leaves of Vallisneria natans (Lour.) Hara treated with 0-100 μM Pb(2+) for 0-6d. The Pb content increased with the increase of exposure duration and a highest Pb uptake value (about 9.4 mg Pbg(-1) dry weight) was obtained at 6d. Pb induced the accumulation of H(2)O(2) and O(2)(-). The increase of malondialdehyde content and the decrease of total chlorophyll and carotenoids were detected in V. natans under Pb stress. Activities of NAD(P)H oxidase, guaiacol peroxidase, glutathione reductase and ascorbate peroxidase increased at 75 μM Pb(2+) for 2-6 days, while activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase and the content of ascorbic acid increased within two days in plants exposed to 75 μM Pb(2+) and decreased thereafter. The Pb uptake and accumulation mechanism were discussed., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

For better understanding the metabolic adaptations to Pb stress in submerged plants, the alterations in mineral elements uptake and in secondary metabolism were studied in leaves of Vallisneria natans (Lour.) Hara exposed to 0-100μM Pb for 0-7d. Pb content increased in leaves in a dose-dependent way. The increase of calcium, magnesium and iron content and the decrease of phosphorus, potassium and manganese content were detected in leaves of V. natans under Pb stress, while no significant changes were detected in copper and zinc concentration. Meanwhile, there was an increase in the concentrations of total phenolic and flavonoids. Pb treatment caused an increase in the catalytic activities of shikimate dehydrogenase, phenylalanine ammonialyase and polyphenol oxidase. The results suggest that nutrient uptake and secondary metabolism were actively regulated by V. natans plants in response to Pb stress., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The likely protective effects of nitric oxide (NO) against ammonium toxicity were investigated in the submerged macrophyte Hydrilla verticillata. The plants were subjected to ammonium stress (3mM ammonium chloride) in the presence of sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 10 μM), an NO donor. Treatment with SNP significantly increased the NO content and partially reversed the ammonium-induced negative effects, including membrane damage and the decrease in levels of chlorophyll, malondialdehyde, glutathione and ascorbic acid. Further, SNP application increased the catalytic activities of ascorbate peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, guaiacol peroxidase, catalase and glutathione S-transferase, but decreased that of NADH-oxidase. Histochemical staining showed that SNP application caused a significant decrease in the levels of superoxides and hydrogen peroxide. In contrast, application of other breakdown products of SNP (10 μM sodium ferrocyanide, 10 μM sodium nitrite and 10 μM sodium nitrate) failed to show any protective effect. The results suggest that the increased intracellular NO, resulting from SNP application, improved the antioxidant capacity of H. verticillata plants in coping with ammonium-induced oxidative stress., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

In the present study, Hydrilla verticillata plants were exposed to arsenate (AsV; 50 microM) and arsenite (AsIII; 5 microM) under variable S supply: deficient (2 microM S, -S), normal (1 mM S, +S) and excess (2 mM S, +HS). Arsenic accumulation (microg g(-1) dw) in +HS plants was about 2-fold higher upon exposure to both AsV (30) and AsIII (50) than that observed in +S (12 & 24) and -S (14 & 26) plants. Despite lower As accumulation, -S plants experienced the maximum oxidative stress owing to an inadequate response of enzymatic and molecular antioxidants and significant decline in total thiols and the ratio of reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG). By contrast +HS plants had significant increase in total thiols and an improved redox status, did not demonstrate any negative impact to antioxidants except catalase and hence experienced the least increase in oxidative stress parameters. In conclusion, an increase in S supply to plants may improve their accumulation capacity for As through enhanced tolerance caused by a positive effect on thiol metabolism and antioxidant status of the plants., (Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

To investigate ammonium toxicity, the submerged plant Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle was treated with 0.1-3.0mM ammonium for 12h and 4d. After exposure to ammonium for 4d, content of O2(-) and H2O2 increased in leaves of H. verticillata exposed to 3mM ammonium compared with control (0mM NH4Cl), while the malondialdehyde content decreased. The chlorophyll (a+b) and carotenoid concentrations decreased in H. verticillata plants exposed to 1.5-3mM ammonium for 12h and 4d. Compared with controls, the activity of superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase, glutathione reductase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione S-transferase increased in plants treated with ammonium for 12h, and the activity of most enzymes was further enhanced at 4d. The changes in nonprotein thiols, total glutathione, ascorbic acid, and dehydroascorbate content were also assayed. Our results suggest that ammonium induced the oxidative stress and the heated antioxidant response in H. verticillata.

The study evaluated the effects of benzalkonium chloride (BAC) and atrazine on the macrophyte Elodea canadensis (Michaux) using a miniaturised monitoring test system consisting of a microbioreactor of reduced volume and integrated sensors for the online measurement of physiologic parameters, like oxygen production and different parameters of fluorescence. Different concentrations of both chemicals were applied to leaves of E. canadensis and the physiologic endpoints evaluated after 1h. A concentration-dependent reduction of the oxygen production and of the effective quantum yield of energy conversion was recorded. The mini-PAM technique implemented in the presented system allowed for a clear monitoring of the kinetic of BAC and atrazine, showing their distinct mode of action. No observable adverse effects were recorded up to concentrations of 2.5 mg/L and 10 microg/L, for BAC and atrazine, respectively. These values are in accordance with available results in the literature, hence indicating that the microbioreactor test system might be suitable, on the one hand, for the laboratory screening of potential short-term toxicity of contaminants on aquatic plants, and on the other hand, serve as an in situ field biomonitoring system for the rapid detection of pollutants in water.