Risk Assessment Studies in Amphibians: The Case of Nanoparticles in the Aquatic Medium

Abstract

The chapter introduces the field of ecotoxicology and focuses on the emerging field of nanoecotoxicology. The use of three amphibian species in evaluating the potential risks associated with exposure to nanoparticles in the context of ecological risk assessment (ERA) is reported and then discussed. Xenopus laevis (Anura, Pipidae), Pleurodeles waltl (Urodela, Salamandridae) and Ambystoma mexicanum (Urodela, Ambistomidae) exhibit varying levels of toxicity to nanoparticles. Genotoxic effects were observed during the exposure of amphibian larvae to certain nanoparticles, which makes amphibians a suitable model for assessing their genetic hazards in ERA. The study proposes using larval growth inhibition as a parameter to evaluate the chronic effects of exposure to nanoparticles. Finally, the article proposes using a combination of ecotoxicological tools, such as monospecific tests, batteries of standardized tests and studies in microcosms or mesocosms, to develop a regulatory approach to nanoparticles in the environment. Overall, the chapter proposes to demonstrate the significance of amphibians in ERA and their potential to contribute to a “Safer by Design” approach to product development.