Ecotoxicological Assessment of the Neonicotinoid Acetamiprid in a Non-Target Aquatic Invertebrate Biomphalaria alexandrina

Theodor Bilharz Research Institute

Bibliographic Information

Authors: Ali R.E.M.; Ali S.E.; Hussein A.A.A.; Morsy M.H.E.

Journal: Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries

Publisher: Egyptian Society for the Development of Fisheries and Human Health

Publication Date: 1 March 2026

Volume / Issue: Volume 30 / Issue 2

Pages: 3425–3448

ISSN: 11106131

DOI: 10.21608/ejabf.2026.477896.7742

Scopus: View on Scopus

Document Type: Article

Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access

Authors and Affiliations

Ali R.E.M., Medical Malacology Department, Theodore Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Egypt; Ali S.E., Environmental Research Department, Theodore Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Egypt; Hussein A.A.A., Medical Malacology Department, Theodore Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Egypt; Morsy M.H.E., Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Arish University, Arish, Egypt

Abstract

Neonicotinoid insecticides are widely used in modern agriculture, and their residues are increasingly detected in aquatic ecosystems near agricultural areas. Acetamiprid, considered a less toxic neonicotinoid, can enter freshwater bodies through agricultural runoff and pose risks to non-target organisms. Freshwater gastropods are highly sensitive to chemical disturbance and serve as reliable bioindicators. This study evaluated the sublethal toxicity of a commercial acetamiprid formulation on the freshwater snail Biomphalaria alexandrina using integrated behavioral, physiological, biochemical, genotoxic, and histopathological endpoints. Sublethal exposure to acetamiprid caused significant, dose-dependent reductions in survivability and feeding activity, indicating persistent physiological stress. Biochemical analyses revealed pronounced oxidative stress, evidenced by increased lipid peroxidation, activation of antioxidant enzymes, and depletion of total antioxidant capacity. Metabolic disruption was demonstrated by elevated glucose levels, reduced total protein, and increased aminotransferase activities. Hematological analysis showed a marked decrease in total hemocyte count and alterations in hemocyte subpopulations, suggesting impaired immune competence. Genotoxic effects were confirmed by significant DNA strand breaks, as reflected by altered comet assay parameters, particularly at higher sublethal doses. Histopathological examination revealed dose-related degenerative changes in the digestive gland with carbohydrate depletion, while severe damage to the hermaphrodite gland associated with protein loss suggested reproductive impairment. Acetamiprid induces substantial sublethal toxicity in B. alexandrina, even at ecologically relevant concentrations. The combined behavioral suppression, oxidative and metabolic dysfunction, immune disruption, DNA damage, and tissue degeneration highlight the vulnerability of freshwater snails to neonicotinoid exposure and raise concerns about the ecological sustainability of non-target aquatic invertebrates in agriculture-intensive environments. © 2026, Egyptian Society for the Development of Fisheries and Human Health. All rights reserved.

Keywords

Aquatic invertebrates; Ecotoxicological assessment; Genotoxicity; Neonicotinoid insecticide; Oxidative stress

Citation Information

Scopus Citations: 0

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