Neuromotor activity inhibition in zebrafish early-life stages after exposure to environmental relevant concentrations of caffeine.

Caffeine (CAF), a neuroactive compound, has been found in surface waters at concentrations ranging from few nanograms up to micrograms and may induce adverse effects in aquatic vertebrates. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of CAF in affecting fish early-life stages in a wide concentration range, including occurring levels in surface waters. Specimens of zebrafish in early-life stages were exposed to CAF for 168 h and survival, developmental alterations, locomotor activity and acetylcholinesterase activity were evaluated.

Fluoxetine chronic exposure affects growth, behavior and tissue structure of zebrafish.

Fluoxetine (FLX) is among the top 100 pharmaceutical prescribed annually worldwide and consequently is often detected in wastewater treatment plant effluent and surface waters, in concentrations up to 2.7 and 0.33 μg/L, respectively.