Elsevier, Chemosphere, 10(85), p. 1543-1547
DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2011.07.048
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Whereas biochemical and molecular parameters have been well recognised as important “signposts” of individual disturbance to endocrine disrupting chemical’s (EDCs) exposure, behavioural endpoints are yet greatly overlooked as a routine tool in environmental risk assessment of EDCs. However, life histories are intimately associated with numerous inter- and intra-specific interactions, which invariably depend on the performance of effective behaviours. Within fish species, one of the most important factors influencing energy turnover earlier in the development is locomotor activity. This essential trait reflects the organism’s ability to generate and coordinate the metabolic energy required for both reproductive and non-reproductive behaviours. Inappropriate movement responses due to toxic effects of contaminants may ultimately impact important ecological variables.