ABSTRACT
Nanotechnology has brought about numerous advancements in various fields, including medicine, electronics, and environmental science. Zine oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are one of the most commonly used metal oxide nanoparticles for commercial and industrial products.
However, due to its extensive use the potential effects of these nanoparticles on aquatic organisms, particularly fishes, have raised concerns. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on the early development of Clarias gariepinus embryos, specifically on the swimming performance of the embryos. The embryos were exposed to different concentrations of Zinc oxide nanoparticles (0, 0.5, 1, 5 and 10 mg/l), and swimming performance assessed at 48hpf and compared against control groups. The findings reveal noteworthy negative alterations in swimming performance of the exposed embryos. The nanoparticle caused a concentration dependent reduction in swimming performance. Embryos in the highest treatment (10mg/l ZnO NPs) had the lowest swimming performance, while the embryos in the lowest treatment group (0.5mg/l ZnO NPs) had the highest swimming performance relative to the control (0mg/1 ZnO NPs). The mean values for swimming performance of the embryo is 34.3 ‡ 0.43, 26.3 ‡ 2.57, 22.5 ‡ 1.11, 18.0 ‡ 1.36 and 15.9 ‡ 0.39 m/s. Swimming is an early social response and any alteration of swimming competence of fishes is an indicator in monitoring early effects of pollutants on the fish community and the aquatic ecosystem. Early and larval stages of aquatic organisms are the key trophic link between primary producers and higher trophic level organisms, and any impacts on their population may have significant ecological consequences. Investigating the long-term effects of nanoparticle exposure on fish development, survival, and reproductive success could provide a more comprehensive view of their ecological impact.
