Antimony (Sb), gallium (Ga), and indium (In) compounds are released into the aquatic environment during manufacturing processes such as wafer processing, epitaxy, and cleaning operations in making high-speed semiconductor and light emitting diodes (LEDs). In certain cases, it is possible that significant levels of these compounds are continually being discharged into aquatic environments, which could increase the hazardous effects. This study was conducted to determine adverse effects of antimony, gallium, and indium on a teleost model and a native fish species. Acute toxicity tests and the median lethal concentration (LC50) could provide objective information for establishing water quality criteria for certain toxic substances. We discussed the acute toxic effects of antimony, gallium, and indium on zebrafish (Danio rerio) and rosy bitterling (Rhodeus ocellatus). The 96-h 50% lethal concentration (LC50) values of antimony ranged within 2.46~5.87 mg l-1for D. rerio, and 4.09~10.85 mg l-1 for R. ocellatus. With regard to gallium toxicity, the 96-h LC50 values ranged within 7.25~11.42 mg l-1 for D. rerio, and 9.47~12.11 mg l-1 for R. ocellatus. The 96-h LC50 values of indium ranged within 12.84~18.35 mg l-1 for D. rerio, and 12.28~15.95 mg l-1 for R. ocellatus. The toxicity of antimony was higher than that of gallium and indium metal compounds toward both the teleost model (D. rerio) and the native fish (R. ocellatus). Comparing the antimony and gallium toxicity tolerance of D. rerio with those of R. ocellatus when exposed to these metals, it is obvious that D. rerio is more sensitive than R. ocellatus.

23.1.2018