Ecological impact of cadmium on aquatic organisms
A synopsis of the potential impacts of Cd on the aquatic environment is presented. Its purpose is not to review trace metals in general or Cd in particular but rather to examine possible routes and mechanisms for transformation, bioaccumulation, and sedimentation of toxic elements derived from anthropogenic sources. A description is given of the ways in which Cd is introduced into aquatic systems, its subsequent chemical transformation, complexes, and deposition, and its biological transformation, bioaccumulation, and toxicity. From this evaluation the potential impact appears to lie not with the amount of Cd emitted to the environment but rather with its cumulative concentration. Cadmium appears to be at a critical concentration in aquatic systems. The findings of chronic effects on biota at nanogram levels indicate the serious consequences of future increases in Cd loading to the environment. Also, large amounts of Cd and numerous other pollutants associated with sedimentary material represent a conceivable hazard to aquatic ecosystems through resuspension and subsequent desorption.
- Research Organization:
- Brookhaven National Lab., Upton, NY (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC02-76CH00016
- OSTI ID:
- 5334208
- Report Number(s):
- BNL-51472; ON: DE82014252
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
ALGAE
AQUATIC ORGANISMS
BIOLOGICAL ACCUMULATION
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
CADMIUM
ELEMENTS
ENVIRONMENTAL TRANSPORT
MASS TRANSFER
METALS
PLANTS
TOXICITY