The toxic effects of Ibuprofen on aquatic freshwater plants: case study.

Ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is used primarily for its analgesic and antipyretic effects. Its widespread popularity is attributable to its convenient availability. High levels of use worldwide and ineffective wastewater treatment result in ibuprofen becoming present in surface waters. Within the environment, it demonstrates bioaccumulation properties, exerting negative impacts on the development and functioning of aquatic organisms. The present study evaluates the effects of ibuprofen on plants of the Lemna minor species, which are commonly found in freshwater and are a popular model organism in ecotoxicology due to their rapid response to environmental stress and high sensitivity to the presence of pollutants. As part of the research, an analysis was conducted of the effects of different concentrations of ibuprofen on key parameters such as: biomass, chlorophyll content and leaf area. The analysis of both the obtained data and the existing literature suggests that the effect of ibuprofen on Lemna minor might vary depending on the specific experimental condition, such as the concentration of the pharmaceutical or the duration of exposure. The results obtained in this research clearly indicate that high levels of ibuprofen in the aquatic environment have a significant toxic effect on Lemna minor. The observations included progressive necrosis and chlorosis of leaves, as well as a marked inhibition of biomass growth, which suggests a significant reduction in the plant's growth capacity.