Potential effects of pharmaceuticals in water bodies - especially those used in aquaculture
Abstract
The release of pharmaceuticals into the aquatic environment has been becoming a global problem due to their potential impacts on aquatic ecosystems. The main sources are domestic wastewater, hospitals, industries and agriculture including aquaculture activities. In the aquatic environment, pharmaceuticals can undergo transformation processes such as photolysis, hydrolysis, biodegradation or accumulation in sediments. Although concentrations are usually low (ng/L to µg/L), in many cases they exceed ecological safety thresholds, affecting microorganisms, algae, fish and other aquatic species. Recorded impacts include hormone disruption, behavioral changes, reduced growth, reduced reproduction and emergence of antibiotic resistance. The aquaculture industry, especially in Vietnam, currently widely uses antibiotics, antiparasitics and chemicals for disease prevention and treatment, contributing significantly to water pollution by pharmaceutical residues. Therefore, strict management of the use of pharmaceuticals in aquaculture, raising public awareness and applying monitoring and control measures are urgent requirements to protect aquatic ecosystems.
