PFAS to Wetlands

Research Objectives

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread environmental contaminants. They concentrate in municipal biosolids, which are spread on agricultural fields contaminating wetlands. Some PFAS (referred to as precursors) can be bio-transformed by bacteria and multicellular organisms (like fish) to usually, smaller, and more easily excretable metabolites. However, there is little understanding on the transformation of PFAS precursors in fish and other aquatic biota. In addition, impacts of PFAS precursors to aquatic communities inhabiting these wetlands has not been explored. The central objective of our work is to study the in vivo transformation and ecological effects of PFAS precursors in wetlands. We will combine field and mesocosm studies to address key questions related to PFAS transformation as well as ecological effects on aquatic communities.

• Some PFAS (precursors) can be bio-transformed by bacteria and higher organisms
• There is little understanding on the transformation of PFAS precursors in aquatic biota
• Studying the in vivo transformation and ecological effects of PFAS precursors in wetlands
• Animal models: Crayfish and bluegill