Microalgae-Based Fluorimetric Bioassays for Studying Interferences on Photosynthesis Induced by Environmentally Relevant Concentrations of the Herbicide Diuron.

The widespread agricultural use of the phenylurea herbicide Diuron (DCMU) requires the investigation of ecotoxicological risk in freshwater and soil ecosystems in light of potential effects on non-target primary producers and a heavier effect on higher trophic levels. We used microalgae-based fluorimetric bioassays for studying the interferences on the photosynthesis of a freshwater and soil model green microalga () induced by environmentally relevant concentrations of the herbicide DCMU. Measurements of steady-state chlorophyll (Chl-a) fluorescence emission spectra were performed; as well, the kinetics of the Chl-a fluorescence transient were recorded.

Towards Simazine Monitoring in Agro-Zootechnical Productions: A Yeast Cell Bioprobe for Real Samples Screening.

Simazine is an herbicide that is able to contaminate surface waters, ground waters, and milk/dairy products, thus posing concerns in both environmental health and food safety. A yeast-based bioprobe was utilized to detect simazine in spiked real samples of livestock drinking water and raw cow's milk. Yeast aerobic respiration was taken as short-term toxicological endpoint.