Effect of petrochemical contaminants on the photosynthetic physiology on the seagrass Halophila baillonii Ascherson

Lima, Maria Cecilia S.; Lima, Thomaz Henrique A.; Sperandio, Marcus V. Loss; Yogui, Gilvan Takeshi; Silva, João; Magalhães, Karine M.

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.1/28115

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Autores

Lima, Maria Cecilia S.

Lima, Thomaz Henrique A.

Sperandio, Marcus V. Loss

Yogui, Gilvan Takeshi

Silva, João

Magalhães, Karine M.

Resumo(s)

Oil spills represent a significant threat to seagrasses as hydrocarbons can impair photosynthetic processes and plant functioning, although physiological responses may vary depending on the spill and environmental conditions This study investigates the physiological responses of Halophila baillonii when exposed to the watersoluble fraction (WSF) of crude oil. Photosynthetic pigment composition, maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm), and oxidative stress indicators malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were analyzed after shortterm exposure. A significant increase in chlorophyll a and b concentrations and variations in carotenoid levels were detected, while photochemical efficiency and oxidative stress indicators were maintained. These findings suggest that the species dynamically adjusts its pigment composition to optimize light capture and mitigate oxidative stress, demonstrating physiological plasticity. Its ability to tolerate WSF exposure highlights the species' short-term resilience to hydrocarbon pollution. Future studies should investigate the effects of long-term exposure to different oil types, such as boat fuel, and the recovery mechanisms of seagrasses.