Effects of waterborne exposure to coconut fatty alcohol sulfate (CEAS) on the fecundity and fertilization success of zebraflor (Danio rerio)

English. various manmade chemicals released into the environment eventually reach and contaminate aquatic ecosystems. One anthropogenic substance of interest is the surfactan, which is an essential constituent of detergents. The extensive use of detergents guarantees the continual presence of surfactants in the environment. Several studies have shown that surfactants not only exert acute toxic effectssome have also demonstrated estrogenic effects in fish. Estrogenic compounds are a class of endocrine disruptors, which have been hypothesized to reduce the fertility, egg size and viable offspring in various species of wildlife, fish and humans. The Philippine government has mandated the use of coconut fatty alcohol sulfate (CFAS) as the main surfactant in locally manufactured detergents, However, since wastewater treatment is not well established in the country, the impact of directly releasing this substances into acquatee ecosystems in a major concern. Although CFAS has shown potential in porturbing reproductive functions in zebrafish, hardly any studies exist that deal with its behavior in the environment, its effect on other aquatic organisms or whether or not it is estrogenic. Because of implications on public health, it is recommended that the government support researchers on CFAs and increase awareness in the use of environment-friendly chemicals not only in industries and commercial establishments but also in households.

English. CF: DR. Jose A. Solis - Dr. Stewart H. Parker Professorial Lecture 2004- 2005 College, laguna (Philippines)