Reproductive toxicity of 3,4‐dichloroaniline (3,4‐dca) on javanese medaka (oryzias javanicus, bleeker 1854)

Abstract

Compound 3,4‐dichloroaniline (3,4‐DCA) is a metabolite of several urea herbicides and intermediate chemical of several industrial products. Moreover, 3,4‐DCA has been frequently detected in aquatic ecosystems around the world. This aniline is more toxic than the parent chemicals, and it affects non‐target organisms. This study evaluated a 21‐day reproductive response of an emerging aquatic vertebrate model, Javanese medaka (Oryzias javanicus), exposed to 3,4‐DCA. Fecundity and gonads histopathology were observed. The spawning rate and fertilisation reduced significantly in the highest exposed‐group (250 μg/L). Gonadosomatic index (GSI) was significantly low in females exposed to 250 μg/L. No substantial structural alteration of male gonads. However, oocyte development and ovarian cell structure were disrupted in 250 μg/L exposed females. The gonadal developmental was not affected in the males; however, a significant reduction in the developmental of female gonads was observed at 250 μg/L. These results show that 3,4‐DCA interfere with the reproduction of Javanese medaka through fecundity and alteration of gonadal tissues.