Effects of phenol in antioxidant metabolism in matrinxã, Brycon amazonicus (Teleostei; Characidae).

Parameters of the antioxidant defense systems of Brycon amazonicus (matrinxã--a neotropical fish) exposed to phenol for 96 h plus the recovery over 1 and 2 weeks were studied in erythrocytes and liver. Hematocrit increase was observed during phenol exposure and recovery for 1 week. Total superoxide dismutases (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reduced glutathione (GSH) did not change during phenol exposure.

Metabolical changes induced by chronic phenol exposure in matrinxã Brycon cephalus (teleostei: characidae) juveniles.

Phenol and its derivatives are xenobiotics present in many industrial wastewaters and in non-specific pesticides. It is a lipophilic compound and, therefore, accumulates along the trophic chain. Phenol is often found in marine and fresh water environments.