Ecotoxicological Effects of Silver Nanoparticles and Their Larvae

Nanoparticles (NPs) can display toxicological effects on aquatic organisms. This study investigates ecotoxicological effects of Ag-NPs on reproductive and blood parameters of adult common molly (Poecilia sphenops) and their larvae. During the LC50 96 h test, female fish were exposed to concentrations of 0, 5, 15, 25, 35, 45 and 60 mg L[sup.−1] of Ag-NPs, while larvae were exposed to 0, 3, 5, 10 and 15 mg L[sup.−1]. Finally, we aim to evaluate the effects of 0, 5, 10 and 15 mg L[sup.−1] of Ag-NPs on parturition time, reproductive success and hematological parameters of the mature fish exposed to sub-lethal concentration during a 62-day period. We also evaluated the survival rate of larvae. The results show a positive correlation between mortality rate and Ag-NP concentration. Values for LC50 96 h in adult fish and larvae were 26.85 mg L[sup.−1] and 6.22 mg L[sup.−1], respectively. A lack of parturition and reproductive success were seen in fish that underwent chronic exposure to Ag-NPs (15 mg L[sup.−1]). The results show that RBC, WBC and hematocrit were significantly decreased in fish exposed to Ag-NPs. In addition, the serum concentrations of total protein, albumin, cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly increased in fish submitted to Ag-NPs (concentrations of 5–15). In conclusion, submitting a fish to higher concentration than 10 mg L[sup.−1] has adverse effects on reproductive system and blood parameters.