Analysis of ultraviolet filters (UVFs) in three sea urchin species

Abstract

In recent times, ultraviolet filters (UVFs) have drawn attention as emerging environmental contaminants due to their global use and growing presence in marine ecosystems. These substances, commonly found in personal care products (PCPs), have reached the sea, where they may pose several risks to biota. This study analyzes UVFs in three different sea urchin species (Paracentrotus lividus, Arbacia lixula and Sphaerechinus granularis), aiming to assess their presence and concentration. The analytical methodology employed, based on microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatograph with tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), was validated as part of the work. A total of 11 UVFs were detected in the samples analyzed from 5 locations around the Gran Canaria island (Canary Islands, Spain) for 6 months, highlighting the ability of these compounds to accumulate in marine biota. These results reinforce existing evidence of the environmental persistence of UVFs and their tendency to bioaccumulate and biomagnify through trophic chains, potentially causing adverse effects on marine organisms and posing risks to human health. Finally, these findings stand out the importance of continued monitoring and research to facilitate the development and implementation of regulatory actions and environmental protection policies.