Numerous studies have shown that many nanomaterials, including silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), have toxic effects on organisms (zebrafish, medaka, rainbow trout, crucian carp, flathead minnow, bacteria, zebrafish embryos, plants, microalga, water flea. Both engineered and natural nanoparticles play important roles in the health of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Toxicity of metal nanoparticles is well known in laboratory settings as indicated in the previously cited studies, but the fate of nanoparticles in the environment and the potential for bioaccumulation is unclear and complicated.
