These microscopic silver particles, also known as nanosilver, serve as an antimicrobial agent in a vast array of consumer products including clothing and condoms. Because they are even smaller than cells in the body, there is concern that they could disrupt biological systems. A study conducted by a research team that includes Trent University’s Professor Chris Metcalfe, as well as dean of Arts and Science (Science) Dr. Holger Hintelmann, Dr. Maggie Xenopoulos and Dr. Paul Frost, delved into the tiny material’s impact on freshwater ecosystems, including fish.
Much of the Lake Ecosystem Nanosilver (LENS) project took place at the IISD Experimental Lakes Area (IISD-ELA) near Kenora, Ontario, with funding support from NSERC and Environment and Climate Change Canada, with a timeline that spanned from 2012-2019. Part of this study was conducted as a whole-lake ecosystem study of the impacts of nanosilver added to one of the lakes at the IISD-ELA. Findings from the most recent study published by Master’s student, Lauren Hayhurst and LENS colleagues indicate that there is a negative impact on fish, specifically yellow perch, from chronic exposure to nanosilver added to the lake at environmentally relevant concentrations.
Continue reading at Trent University.
Image via Trent University.