Beyond the target: the ecotoxicological impact of flubendiamide in natural ecosystems
摘要
The intensive use of pesticides in modern agriculture has raised growing concerns about their undesirable effects on non-target organisms and aquatic ecosystems. Among these chemicals, flubendiamide, a phthalic acid diamide insecticide that acts on ryanodine receptors, has attracted attention for its persistence and ecotoxicological impact. This review collates and analyses current evidence on the environmental behaviour, toxicity and risks of flubendiamide. Studies report its long half-life in aquatic systems (up to 301 days at neutral pH) and moderate bioaccumulation potential, with bioconcentration factors ranging from 1.1 to 2.0 in fish. Acute and sublethal exposures have been shown to impair respiration and behaviour, induce oxidative stress, and alter biochemical homeostasis in aquatic model species such as Catla catla, Clarias gariepinus, and Daphnia magna (EC50 63.5 μg/L). Histopathological and molecular responses, including gills, liver, kidneys, intestine, gonads and circulatory system damage and dysfunction, further highlight its ecological relevance. While effective as an insecticide, its overuse raises concerns about environmental safety and potential risks to human health via contaminated aquatic food sources. Further research is needed to elucidate the full scope of flubendiamide’s ecotoxicological effects and to inform regulatory strategies for its use in agricultural practices.