Eco(toxicological) Assessment of the Neonicotinoid Formulation Actara® Using Planarian Girardia tigrina as Model Organism

Neonicotinoid pesticides are one of the most commercialized groups worldwide. Their application in agriculture aims to control pests through a systemic mode action which is not specific target species. Our study aimed evaluate effects insecticide Actara® [active ingredient thiamethoxam (TMX)] on non-target species, Girardia tigrina. Therefore, acute and sublethal endpoints, such as mortality, feeding activity, locomotion behavioral biomarkers were assessed. exerted low toxicity towards planarian tigrina, showing 96 h LC50 value 77.6 mg TMX·L−1 (95% C.I: 74.1–81.2 TMX·L−1; R2 = 0.85). At level, no effect regeneration photoreceptors auricles planarians after 24 48 post-exposure (NOEC > 7.8 TMX·L−1). The rate was significantly increased by Actara®, but only at highest tested concentration (LOEC Planarians showed be less sensitive active TMX compared other freshwater This might explained presence high proportion sub-types acetylcholine receptors planarians, exhibiting binding affinity sites for TMX, an partial agonist. comparison between induced with ones caused formulations, support our understanding how unknown ingredients can modify uptake, bioavailability substances, well detoxification capacity all influences toxicity.