Pollutants as stressors in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems (ZASTEK)
Project summary: Pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, PAHs, PCBs, and micro- and nanoplastics enter the environment through natural processes and human activity. Due to their persistence, they persist in the environment, accumulate in organisms, and disrupt the ecological balance. Their effects can cause changes at the molecular, biochemical, physiological, and behavioral levels of organisms, which affects the stability and regeneration capacity of ecosystems. Monitoring the presence and effects of pollutants is possible using chemical analysis and biological methods, with the combination of both approaches providing the most reliable data. For this, it is important to choose appropriate model organisms, such as aquatic insects, fish, amphibians, and birds. Ichthyophagous birds are particularly useful because they allow non-invasive sampling (feathers, eggshells), in accordance with the 3R principle. There is currently no systematic research on the bioaccumulation of pollutants in Croatia. The proposed research is aimed at establishing biomonitoring based on the analysis of pollutant accumulation and biomarker responses in different species. The data obtained will contribute to a better understanding of the impact of pollutants and the development of effective environmental policies and measures for the protection of ecosystems.
Project duration: 01.10.2025.-30.09.2029.
Funding amount: 104,000.00 EUR
Research team members
Project leader: Asst. Prof. Dr. Sc. Alma Mikuška
Contact amikuska@biologija.unios.hr
Project collaborators:
Prof. dr. sc. Mirna Velki
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sc. Sandra Ečimović
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sc. Mirta Sudarić Bogojević
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sc. Lidija Kalinić
Asst. Prof. Dr. Sc. Dora Bjedov
Asst. Prof. Dr. Sc.Mislav Kovačić
Mr. Sc. Željko Zahirović