Fate and effects of PFOS and PFOA individually and in mixture in simulated saltmarsh ecosystems

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread environmental contaminants known for their persistence and mobility. While much research has focused on freshwater systems, their fate and ecotoxicological effects in marine and estuarine environments remain less understood. This mesocosm study aimed to investigate the partitioning behavior and impacts of two common PFAS, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), individually and in mixture, within a simulated salt marsh ecosystem. The study assessed partitioning into water, sediment, and various biota, as well as effects on animal survival, growth, and physiological endpoints.