Posted on 04/06/2023 6:14:54 AM PDT by Red Badger
* Human drugs were found in redfish across Florida waters, a study found
* The most commonly detected drug was a cardiovascular medication
* Scientists worry septic pollution is driving some species away
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(NewsNation) — Human pharmaceuticals used to treat everything from heartburn to Alzheimer’s disease symptoms are turning up in fish in waters across the state of Florida, according to a new study.
The yearlong research project funded by Florida International University and the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust deemed the presence of potent contaminants in redfish an “urgent concern” and “significant threat” to Florida’s recreational fishery.
“The study’s results provide more evidence of the ongoing need for significant investment in Florida’s water infrastructure,” the study’s authors wrote in a report, “including employing additional innovative wastewater treatment solutions, like ozonation, to address pharmaceuticals and other contaminants of emerging concern.”
Researchers tested 113 Florida redfish for 94 commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals and detected a total of 17 unique drugs. On average, 2.1 drugs were detected in each redfish, and only seven had zero pharmaceuticals.
The most commonly detected drugs were cardiovascular medications, opioid pain relievers and psychoactive medication, according to the study. Flecainide, which treats irregular heartbeats, was found in 53% of the fish sampled, while caffeine was found in 43%.
The study builds on one conducted last year that detected contaminants in 100% of bonefish samples from Biscayne Bay and Florida Keys.
Bonefish have become exceedingly rare in Florida, WLRN reported, as scientists worry that septic pollution is driving the fish away.
“Frying is for catfish.”
You don’t live in the south do you?
Interesting. So it’s not just the square grouper laced with drugs. Good to know for those who like to serve Florida “fish” after a long day at work. Bon appetit! And don’t drive after dinner. Just fyi.
Some square grouper was reported just last week along the coast...........
Yet they say Bonefish numbers are down.
Were the redfish in “the slot?”
“I don’t flush drugs down the toilet, directly...”
I’m assuming the presence of drugs in fish is coming from what is still residing in urine entering the water system.
They better be...................
Really.
I don’t know if commercial filters will remove drugs......................
Hmmm🤔
Berkey claims to, as does Multipure.
It may be worth adding reverse osmosis.
Sheesh!
Like, I didn't have enough to worry about?
If your heart starts acting up, you will know.....
Redneck South, no. I’m south Louisiana south. Redfish is for courtbouillon, or blackening or grilling. Catfish is for frying.
Lol.
That explains why a nice bowl of kedgeree leaves me so full of energy.
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