Concerns and Threats of Xenobiotics on Aquatic Ecosystems

Abstract

Anthropogenic actions can result in environmental damage when they disrespect sustainability principles. The use of synthetic chemical substances as pesticides, the large presence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in wastewaters, industrial activities using dyes or other organic compounds that can persist for a long time in nature are some examples of concerning sources of a group of pollutants called xenobiotics. This is a global problem that threatens the survival of various forms of life on the planet, including humans, and consequently from the ecosystem as a whole. This chapter will address specifically the concerns and threats related to the pollution of aquatic ecosystems by xenobiotics, highlighting the pesticides and pharmaceuticals.