Toxic Effects in Subsequent Generations from Sex-Dependent Exposure to 2,3ꞌ,4,4ꞌ,5-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 118) on Danio rerio

The results of an experiment on the oral exposure of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) 118 into the zebrafish Danio rerio (Hamilton, 1822) (F0) with food at calculated doses of 5, 20, and 80 μg/individuals are presented. In the first generation F1, there is a decrease in survival rate and a shift in the sex ratio, predominantly towards females. In the second generation F2, the same effects are noted as in F1, but they are not as pronounced. It has been hypothesized that the effects seen in the F2 generation may be caused by epigenetic mechanisms, which are still poorly understood. It is possible that the feminization of animal populations and a decrease in their survival rate are very strong factors in reducing the populations of living organisms, including humans, especially near sites of distribution of PCBs. It is necessary to study epigenetic mechanisms in order to develop measures to eliminate and prevent problems with the biotic degradation and depopulation of fish exposed to PCBs in the sites that arise as a result of the improper disposal of electrical engineering waste containing PCBs.