Environmental Assessment and Experimental Trial on the Effects of BTX Exposure on Adults and Embryos of Bufo regularis

Abstract

One of the causes of ecological deterioration is the increase of existing and emerging contaminants. Therefore, investigating the effects of daily-used product residues on river ecosystems, animal health, water quality, and biotic integrity is crucial. Field investigations were conducted to examine daily-used product residues along the Nile River in four cities of Assiut governate. Benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) are present in gasoline and are used as antiknock agents in petrol. They are also used in the production of daily-used products, paints, polymers, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and so forth. Given their widespread use and exposure, the current study aims to determine the effect of BTX on Bufo regularis. The toxicity of BTX in Bufo regularis was assessed using erythrocyte alterations, nuclear abnormalities, and hematobiochemical parameters. A seven-day acute exposure to each chemical resulted in morphological alterations in erythrocytes. The group exposed to benzene and toluene had a decrease in red blood cells and hemoglobin levels with an increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Hepatic enzymes, including alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase, increased significantly in BTX groups. Similarly, total protein and total bilirubin levels increased dramatically in groups exposed to BTX. Results of the present study showed that benzene and toluene have a more significant effect on the blood biochemistry and hematology of Bufo regularis compared with xylene. This research will provide fundamental information on the toxicological effects of these chemicals on amphibians, which can be utilized to develop policies and management strategies to address the decline of amphibian populations.