Aspects of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Aquatic Ecosystems: A One Health Perspective

Abstract

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of persistent organic pollutants with a complex chemical structure, predominantly derived from both natural and anthropogenic activities. The paper focuses on the overview of PAHs in aquatic ecosystems. The paper found that PAHs are widespread in aquatic ecosystems, arising from volcanic eruptions, forest fires, industrial discharges, urban runoff, oil spills, and atmospheric deposition. The persistence of PAHs in water bodies is influenced by factors such as temperature, salinity, and pH, which determine their partitioning, distribution, and bioaccumulation within sediments and aquatic biota. The study also found that the toxicological effects of PAHs on aquatic organisms are profound, causing acute and chronic toxicity in fish, while also leading to genotoxic and carcinogenic outcomes. These compounds can disrupt reproductive, developmental, and immune functions, with biomarkers of exposure evident in affected species. Human health is equally at risk, as PAHs bioaccumulate and biomagnify through the food chain, leading to exposure via contaminated seafood and water, with health risks ranging from carcinogenicity to endocrine disruption. From an ecosystem perspective, PAHs degrade critical services such as water quality, fisheries, and biodiversity, impacting the livelihoods and food security of coastal communities. A One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health sectors, is essential for monitoring and mitigating PAH pollution. Strategies include source control, bioremediation, regulatory frameworks, and community-based interventions. Therefore, addressing knowledge gaps, advancing ecotoxicological studies, and integrating One Health frameworks offer sustainable pathways to manage PAHs, mitigate their impacts, and protect aquatic ecosystems and public health.