Toxic Effects of Eight Azole Fungicides on the Growth, Photosynthetic Activity, and Oxidative Stress of Raphidocelis Subcapitata

This study investigates the 96 hr toxicity and physiological effects of eight azole fungicides on Raphidocelis subcapitata (R. subcapitata). The findings revealed significant differences in toxicity levels among these fungicides, with the hierarchy of toxicity as follows: difenoconazole ≈ tetraconazole ≈ fuberidazole > metconazole > terrazole ≈ triflumizole > flutriafol > hymexazol. Increased concentrations of azole fungicides corresponded with decreased cellular activity and inhibited algal growth, highlighting the concentration-dependent nature of toxicity. The toxicological mechanisms involved include reduced levels of chlorophyll (Chla, Chlb) and carotenoids, disrupting the photosynthetic process. Additionally, exposure to these fungicides resulted in decreased total protein levels, increased reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, and elevated activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase. Consequently, there was a significant rise in apoptosis rates among algal cells. These findings provide important insights for assessing the ecological impact of azole fungicides on aquatic ecosystems and aquatic life.