Endocrine disruption in aquatic species of Chile

Abstract

Compounds called endocrine disrupters (EDs) interfere with the endocrine systems of aquatic animals such as fish, amphibians, and mollusks. EDs impact sexual development and other functions that can affect the fitness of individuals with potential consequences to the population. We reviewed 45 studies published between 1999 and 2020 on the impact EDs have on aquatic species in Chile, including both indexed and non-indexed articles. The objective of this review is to identify geographic areas and organisms in which endocrine disruption has been detected, the alterations reported, and the compounds involved. We found 11 publications on marine mollusks, 17 on fish, and two on amphibians. Eight publications described bioassays, seven were related to environmental contamination including a review on monitoring the environmental effects of pulp and paper mill effluent (PPME). There is a worldwide concern about the endocrine disruption in aquatic species, however, this concern is still not considered in Chilean environmental regulations. The publications analyzed in this review demonstrate why Chilean environmental authorities should consider EDs in the regulatory process.

Keywords

• imposex
• phytosterols
• pulp and paper mill effluents
• sewage
• tributyltin