Pesticide soil contamination mainly affects earthworm male reproductive parameters

Abstract

Aim: To explore the effect of exposure to commercial Parathion® (Pc) on the reproductive parameters (sperm and cocoon production and genotoxicity on male germ cells), the survival, the body weight and the gross anatomical changes in Eisenia foetida. Methods: Three doses of Pc (1478, 739 and 444 mg/kg of soil) and three time intervals of exposure (5, 15 and 30 days) were used. Results: All treated animals were affected. An acute genotoxic effect, revealed by DNA fragmentation (comet assay), was seen by 5 days. Alterations in reproductive parameters were conspicuous in regard to the number of sperm, cocoons and worms born, and the histological observation of the gonads and seminal receptacles. In addition, the body weight and survival rate were decreased. Neuromuscular function was also affected. Conclusion: Earthworms are suitable bioindicators of chemical contamination of the soil, their advantage being their easy and economical handling.