Biomagnification

Biomagnification

 Biomagnification is the increase in contaminated substances due to the intoxicating environment. The contaminants might be heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, and pesticides such as polychlorinated biphenyls and DDT (Dichloro Diphenyl Trichloro ethane). These substances are takenup by the organisms through the food they consume. When the organisms in the higher food chain feed on the organisms in the lower food chain containing these toxins, these toxins get accumulated in the higher organisms.

Causes of Bio-magnification

Following are the major causes of bio-magnification:

a. The agricultural pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers and fungicides are very toxic and are released into the soil, rivers, lakes, and seas. These cause health issues in aquatic organisms and humans.

b. Organic contaminants cause adverse impact on the health of humans, animals, and wildlife.

c. Industrial activities release toxic substances which enter into the organism through food chain leading to bio-magnification.

d. Mining activities generate a large amount of sulphide and selenium deposits in water. These toxic substances are absorbed by the aquatic organisms in the food chain.

Effects of Bio-magnification

Following are the effects of bio-magnification on living organisms and the environment:

a. It has more impact on humans causing cancer, kidney problems, liver failure, birth defects, respiratory disorders, and heart diseases.

b. It also affects the reproduction and development of marine organisms.

c. The destruction of coral reefs affects the lives of many aquatic animals.

d. The chemicals and toxins which are released into the water bodies disrupt the food chain.

More to know

Dr. K. Sakhila Banu, a scientist from Texas A & M University, USA has found out that the water contaminated by chromium metal induces infertility in female species and also causes oxidative stress in the human placenta which could affect the growth of the baby. She is from Pudupattinam village in Ramnad district, Tamil Nadu.