Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2009IN244B

The Influence of Nonprescription Pharmaceuticals on Aquatic Ecosystems: Direct Toxicity and Indirect Trophic Interactions

Institute: Indiana
Year Established: 2009 Start Date: 2009-03-01 End Date: 2010-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $15,000 Total Non-Federal Funds: $31,714

Principal Investigators: Melody Bernot

Project Summary: Pharmaceuticals in freshwater is increasingly becoming a concern due to potential problems associated with drinking water contamination and freshwater habitat degradation. However, little data is available on the effects of trace concentrations of pharmaceuticals on aquatic ecosystems. Further, only a few studies have quantified the range and variability of pharmaceuticals in freshwater. This is due in part to the expense associated with measuring trace organics. I propose a study to directly assess the influence of pharmaceuticals on aquatic microbial activity in conjunction with documentation of the range of pharmaceuticals found in a sub-watershed of the Wabash River, the Upper White River. These data will provide novel baseline data necessary to understand how pharmaceuticals may be affecting freshwater resources in Indiana. Current management programs based on single water quality parameters (e.g., NO3-N) or even multiple water quality parameters may not sufficient to manage biological resources and freshwater quality if trace organics such as pharmaceuticals are altering biotic activity. Without more comprehensive data to guide management programs, we may incorrectly assume that these programs are adequate for maintaining or improving water resources. This research will address these concerns by (1) quantifying spatial and temporal variability of pharmaceuticals; and (2) providing a more comprehensive understanding of pharmaceutical influence on biotic activity using in vitro experiments. Combining the descriptive survey of aquatic ecosystems with innovative laboratory experimental approaches will provide one of the most comprehensive analyses of the influence of pharmaceuticals on aquatic ecosystems in central Indiana. These data are absolutely imperative to make appropriate management and regulatory decisions for watersheds.