Source, bioaccumulation, degradability and toxicity of triclosan in aquatic environments: A review

Triclosan (TCS), a lipophilic broad-spectrum biocide is widely used in personal care, acrylic, veterinary, medical and household products. It has been observed to be present in aquatic environments, animal and plant tissues around the world, and even in human blood, urine and breast milk. Under natural conditions, TCS degrades photolytically as well as through microbial action into more persistent and toxic byproducts like dioxins. Moreover, accumulation in deep water bodies or soil strata where light is not adequately available makes its degradation even more prolonged. Present review has been undertaken with an objective to highlight the concerns surrounding TCS exposure to aquatic organisms, the infiltration routes into the food chain, its persistence and accumulation, teratogenic, biochemical and cytogenic effects on a wide range of aquatic species. The widespread use of products containing TCS and potential toxicity at lethal concentrations makes it a compound of utmost concern worldwide and hence its use under permissible levels, proper disposal needs to be regulated.