Мікро- Та Рідкоземельні Елементи У Воді Та Водних Організмах Прісноводних Екосистем

This review article comprehensively analyzes the role of trace elements and rare earth elements (REEs) in freshwater ecosystems. It covers their sources, biological significance, accumulation patterns, and potential ecological risks by synthesizing existing research on their involvement in biochemical processes, effects on biodiversity, and contributions to ecosystem stability and eutrophication. Trace elements are crucial in aquatic ecosystems, influencing physiological processes such as enzyme activity, photosynthesis, and metabolism in organisms. Their presence is primarily due to natural sources like rock weathering, atmospheric deposition, and biological interactions. However, anthropogenic activities – including industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and wastewater effluents – significantly alter their concentrations, leading to potential toxicity and ecological imbalances. The review discusses the bioaccumulation of trace elements in aquatic flora and fauna, detailing factors affecting their uptake, storage, and transfer within trophic networks. It also addresses the risks of excessive concentrations, which can cause toxic effects, oxidative stress, and physiological disorders in aquatic organisms. A significant portion of the review focuses on rare earth elements, whose increasing use in modern technologies has raised environmental concerns. Although REEs are typically found in low concentrations in freshwater, their accumulation from industrial sources can pose risks to aquatic life. The article examines their potential roles in biological processes, including interactions with essential nutrients and impacts on cellular metabolism. While some studies suggest beneficial effects at trace levels, higher concentrations have been linked to toxicity, affecting various aquatic trophic levels. The review further explores mechanisms of REE contamination, their mobility in freshwater systems, and long-term ecological consequences. The biogeochemical cycling of both trace and rare earth elements is analyzed, considering factors like pH, redox conditions, and organic matter interactions, which influence their bioavailability, toxicity, distribution, and persistence in aquatic environments. The review emphasizes the importance of monitoring trace and rare earth element concentrations as a key component of freshwater ecosystem management strategies. Given the increasing anthropogenic impact on aquatic environments, understanding the dynamics of these elements is crucial for predicting and mitigating their ecological effects. The findings underscore the need for continuous research on trace and rare earth elements in freshwater ecosystems, particularly regarding their accumulation patterns, interactions with aquatic organisms, and potential long-term consequences. The review concludes by highlighting the necessity of implementing regulatory measures, improving wastewater treatment technologies, and developing environmentally sustainable practices to minimize contamination and preserve ecosystem health.