Settleable atmospheric particulate matter harms a marine invertebrate: Integrating chemical and biological damage in a bivalve model

Some atmospheric pollutants may affect aquatic ecosystems after settling, generating contamination, bioaccumulation, and threats to aquatic species. Metallurgical processes result in the emission of settleable atmospheric particulate mat-ter (SePM), including metals and metalloids, along with rare earth elements (REE) that are considered emerging con-taminants. We report the 30-day exposure of brown mussels (Perna perna) to SePM collected in a metallurgical area of southeast Brazil close to estuarine ecosystems, followed by a 30-day clearance period, to evaluate the toxic potential of SePM to this model mollusk. The bioaccumulation of 28 elements identified in SePM and the sublethal effects were evaluated. REEs were found in SePM (Ce, Y, and La). Significant bioaccumulation of eight metals (Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Rb, Sr, Cd, and Ba) was found in the bivalves and correlates with the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity, showing a dose -dependent mode and suggesting a pre-pathological condition that could lead to ecological disturbances over time. Con-versely, the unchanged lipid-peroxidation level after SePM exposure could indicate the effectiveness of the antioxidant system in protecting gills and digestive glands. The clearance period was not enough to successfully reverse the nega-tive effects observed. So far, the current results enhance the comprehension of the negative role of SePM on metal bioaccumulation and metal-induced toxicity to aquatic biota. Thus, this report adds innovative findings on the role of SePM in aquatic pollution in coastal areas affected by atmospheric pollution, which should be relevant for future public policies to verify and control the environmental pollution.

Automated summary

The study reports on the toxic potential of settleable atmospheric particulate matter (SePM) on brown mussels and its bioaccumulation of elements. Rare earth elements and heavy metals were found in SePM and showed bioaccumulation in the mussels, leading to cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. The research contributes to a better understanding of the negative effects of SePM on metal bioaccumulation and toxicity to aquatic biota, emphasizing the need for environmental control measures.