Bioakkumulatsiooni

Bioakkumulatsiooni, also known as biological accumulation or biomagnification, is the process by which certain substances increase in concentration within an organism over time. This occurs when an organism absorbs a substance at a rate faster than that at which it is lost by catabolism and excretion. Bioakkumulatsiooni can be a concern for many types of chemicals, including pesticides, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs).

These substances often enter the environment through industrial processes, agricultural practices, or waste disposal. Once in the environment, they can be taken up by plants and microorganisms, which are then consumed by herbivores. The substances accumulate in the tissues of these herbivores. When carnivores consume multiple herbivores, the concentration of the substance can become significantly higher in the carnivore's tissues than in the tissues of the organisms lower on the food chain. This process is specifically referred to as biomagnification.

The consequences of bioakkumulatsiooni can be severe for both individual organisms and entire ecosystems. High concentrations of certain substances can lead to a range of health problems, including reproductive issues, developmental abnormalities, and even death. For example, mercury bioakkumuleren in fish can pose a significant health risk to humans who consume contaminated seafood. Similarly, POPs can disrupt hormonal systems and impair immune function in wildlife. Understanding and mitigating bioakkumulatsiooni is crucial for protecting environmental and human health.