Effects of copper-based antifouling paints on brine shrimp
Context of the study
Antifouling paints based on based on tin like TBT have been recognized to have toxic effects on non-target organisms. Antifouling paints based on copper are used by fish farming industry to prevent attachment and growth of organisms on the nets and on fish cages. Its however suspected that these copper based paints also have negative effects on non-target organisms.[1]
Content of the study
The study investigates the effects of a copper based antifouling paint on larvae of the brine shrimps. They were bred, and subsequently exposed to different amounts of the antifouling paint. The enzymatic activities of ATPase (an important protein) of the larvae were also examined.
Main results of the study
The paint was found to be very toxic to the brine shrimp larvae. The dose at which 50% of the animals died (=LC50) was 24,6 mm2/ml (expressed as amount of surface painted per volume of water). The toxic effect is probably due to the constant release of copper ions to the surrounding seawater. This copper probably inhibits the activity of ATPase. Inhibition of this protein might disrupt the osmotic regulation of the cell. If the brine shrimp larvae is exposed to large amounts of copper this would lead to its death.[1]
