Acute Toxicity Effects of Lead , Copper and Titanium Nanoparticles on Certain Behavioral and Physiological Characteristics of Cyprinus carpio

Document Type : Original Article

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Abstract

The acute toxicity assessments provide valuable insights, and it is crucial to investigate the sub-lethal effects of these compounds on fish behavior, growth, and reproductive success. This study examined the acute toxicity of lead nitrate, copper oxide, and titanium dioxide nanoparticles on the common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Five different concentrations of each nanoparticle were tested over 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours using a robust experimental design. Quantitative measures of toxicity were evaluated by determining LC₅₀ values and recording mortality rates at each time point. Statistical analyses, including one-way ANOVA and post-hoc tests, were performed to compare toxicity levels, with significance defined as P< 0.05. Our results indicate that Pb(NO₃)₂ exhibits the highest toxicity, followed by CuO nanoparticles and TiO₂ nanoparticles. The toxicity trajectories revealed a dose- and time-dependent relationship, with notable mortality spikes at higher concentration levels, particularly after 72 and 96 hours of exposure. Graphical representations illustrate mortality rates over time, while tabulated LC₅₀ values provide detailed insights into the comparative toxic profiles. These findings have important environmental implications regarding the discharge of industrial effluents and nanomaterial waste into freshwater ecosystems. This research not only deepens our understanding of nanoparticle toxicity in aquatic organisms but also provides critical data for environmental risk assessments and regulatory guidelines concerning heavy metal and nanoparticle pollutants.

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