A Ecotoxicity of polybrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-47) on a meiobenthic community with special emphasis on nematodes: Taxonomic and trophic diversity assessment

The response taxonomic and trophic of meiobenthic organisms, especially marine nematodes to polybrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-47) was studied using a community from Bizerte lagoon (Nord-East Tunisia). Four concentrations of BDE-47 [D1 (2.5 mu g/kg dw), D2 (25 mu g/kg dw), D3 (50 mu g/kg dw), and D4 (100 mu g/kg dw)] were applied, and responses were determined 30 days after exposure. Species abundance and all univariate indices were significantly affected in all treated microcosms compared to the control. The non-parametric cluster based on species abundance separated the nematode population into two groups: control thorn all treated microcosms. After grouping nematode species according to their trophic diversity, their abundance showed differential responses. The non-metric multi-dimensional scaling analysis and cumulative k-dominance based on the abundance of trophic groups abundances reflected significant separation between the control microcosm and each treatment condition. The correspondence analysis 2D plot generated from nematode species and trophic groups abundance showed the control microcosm was dominated by microvores, represented by two species of Terschellingia. However, when treated with the highest concentration of BDE-47, the community was occupied by the resistant trophic groups of facultative predators and epigrowth feeders represented by Metoncholaimus pristiurus and Paracomesoma dubium, respectively. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The study investigated the taxonomic and trophic responses of meiobenthic organisms, especially marine nematodes, to polybrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-47) in Bizerte lagoon. Results showed significant effects on species abundance and trophic diversity in response to different concentrations of BDE-47. The community of nematodes was separated into different groups based on treatment conditions, with the high concentration leading to dominance of resistant trophic groups.