Publications by authors named "Joao Lt Pestana"

Article Synopsis
  • Freshwater sediments accumulate microplastics (MPs) from human activities, with benthic invertebrates like the annelid Lumbriculus variegatus (blackworm) likely ingesting them as they feed on contaminated sediment.
  • In a study, blackworms were exposed to varying concentrations of different sizes of polyethylene MPs for 48 hours to assess immediate effects, and for 28 days to evaluate long-term impacts on reproduction and biomass.
  • While short-term exposure led to energy depletion and activation of detoxification processes in the worms, long-term exposure did not adversely affect their reproduction or biomass, suggesting that L. variegatus has effective mechanisms to cope with microplastic ingestion.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Background: Commercial formulations based on Bacillus thuringiensis subs. kurstaki (Btk) and Beauveria bassiana (Bb) are commonly used microbial insecticides in Brazil and other tropical regions. However, and despite being considered environmentally friendly, their use generates concerns regarding possible adverse ecological effects in freshwater ecosystems.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF