Antibacterial soap affects fish reproductive behavior
December 2010
Are you using antibacterial soap? You might change your mind after learning what scientists reported in November at the meeting of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry in Portland, Oregon.
Chemist Melissa Schultz studied the effects of low concentrations of triclosan and triclocarban on minnows in laboratory aquariums. The concentrations studied are levels found in the environment. Schultz found that even low levels of these chemicals affected the behavior of male minnows who normally defend their nests from rivals. Exposed males were less interested than non exposed controls.
“Even at the low concentrations found in the wild, these chemicals can alter reproductive behavior,” noted Heiko Schoenfuss, and aquatic toxicologist.
Next time you go to the store, you might want to read the label on the soap container.
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