The impact of temperature on lithium toxicity in the gastropod Tritia neritea

The most important use of lithium (Li) is in rechargeable batteries. The growing use of Li, incorrect disposal of Li-based applications, and inefficient recycling strategies for their elimination will result in the release of this metal into the aquatic systems. Alongside with the impacts caused by pollutants, organisms in coastal ecosystems are also facing environmental changes as those related with climate change scenarios, namely, seawater temperature rise. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the influence of temperature on Li toxicity, using the Nassariid gastropod Tritia neritea as model species. Metabolism and oxidative stress related biomarkers were evaluated after a 28-day exposure period. The results demonstrated that temperature enhanced the toxic impacts of Li, most probably due to snail increased sensitivity when under warming conditions. As a consequence of inefficient antioxidant and biotransformation capacity, lipid peroxidation was observed in Li-contaminated snails at 21 degrees C, demonstrating a significant interaction between both factors. Regarding snails' metabolic capacity, Li did not affect snails, but a clear decrease on their metabolism was observed at increased temperature (with or without Li) which may limit snail defense capacity. Overall, the present findings demonstrated the impacts derived from Li towards marine intertidal gastropods, evidencing enhanced threats under predicted warming conditions. Considering the role of T. neritea in the ecosystem functioning, impacts on this species may greatly affect other populations and eventually the entire community.

Automated summary

This study evaluated the influence of temperature on lithium toxicity and found that temperature enhances the toxic effects of lithium on gastropods, possibly due to increased sensitivity under warming conditions. In addition, lithium contamination affects the metabolic capacity of gastropods, potentially limiting their defense mechanisms. These findings highlight the threats posed by lithium to intertidal marine gastropods and its potential impacts on the entire community.