Depressed fish? How Prozac in lakes and rivers may harm aquatic life

An Australian-Italian study has detected traces of fluoxetine, commonly known as Prozac, in freshwater lakes and rivers, potentially affecting fish health.
Researchers from Monash University and the University of Tuscia found that male guppies exposed to fluoxetine had larger gonopodia but lower sperm mobility, impacting fertility.
The study highlights that current wastewater treatment plants are not equipped to filter out pharmaceutical residues, allowing these pollutants to enter waterways.
Besides fluoxetine, other pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and heavy metals have been found in freshwater, posing risks to aquatic ecosystems.
Experts suggest that improving water treatment processes and engaging governments to set stricter standards could mitigate the impact of these pollutants.