"Effects of waterborne exposure to Coconut Fatty Alcohol Sulfate (CFAS)" by Michelle Grace V. Paraso
 

Effects of waterborne exposure to Coconut Fatty Alcohol Sulfate (CFAS) on the fecundity and fertilization success of zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Professorial Chair Lecture

Dr. Jose A. Solis - Dr. Stewart H. Parker Professorial Lecture

Date

2005

Abstract

Various manmade chemicals released into the environment eventually reach and contaminate aquatic ecosystems. One anthropogenic substance of interest is the surfactant, 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 effects; some 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 substance into aquatic ecosystems is a major concern. Although CFAS has shown potential in perturbing reproductive functions in zebrafish, hardly any studies exist that deal with its behavior in the environment, its effects on other aquatic organisms or whether or not it is estrogenic. Because of implications on public health, it is recommended that the government support researches on CFAS and increase awareness in the use of environment-friendly chemicals not only in industries and commercial establishments but also in households.

Location

UPLB Main Library Special Collections Section (USCS)

College

College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM)

Language

English

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