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Impact of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) microplastics exposure on Penaeus vannamei survival
Summary
Laboratory bioassays showed that high-density polyethylene microplastics were acutely toxic to Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) postlarvae at concentrations above 62.5 mg/L, with 100% mortality at the highest dose, and confirmed ingestion via fluorescence microscopy.
High-density polyethylene microplastics (HDPE-MPs) represent an emerging threat to aquatic ecosystems and aquaculture species, such as Penaeus vannamei. This study examined the impact of PE-MPs on the survival and growth of shrimp postlarvae and juveniles under controlled laboratory conditions. Bioassays were conducted using HDPE-MPs (34-50 μm) at concentrations ranging from 5 to 625 mg L-1. Survival, specific growth rate (SGR), and LC50 values were assessed. Ingestion of MPs was confirmed in postlarvae using fluorescence microscopy with Nile red staining. Postlarvae showed 100% mortality at 625 mg L-1, with an LC50 of 21.89 mg L-1, while juveniles reached 70% mortality at 125 mg L-1, with an LC50 of 30.6 mg L-1. Both stages exhibited a significant dose-dependent reduction in survival with MPs (P < 0.05). SGR declined markedly at concentrations of ≥100 mg L-1. Behavioral alterations, lethargy, and reduced feeding were observed, along with the accumulation of MPs in the tissues of dead shrimp, indicating physiological disruption. Postlarvae exhibited greater sensitivity to LC50 concentrations, although juveniles may have a relatively higher particle ingestion capacity when considering biomass and size proportions. This study provides the first LC50 values for P. vannamei postlarvae and juveniles exposed solely to HDPE-MPs, highlighting the role of organism size and developmental stage in susceptibility. These results underscore the urgent need to establish toxicity thresholds for MPs in aquaculture species and inform strategies to mitigate their impact. Understanding MP-related risks is essential for enhancing biosecurity and sustainability in shrimp farming systems.
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