Abstract

Abstract Aquatic ecosystems are increasingly exposed to a variety of environmental pollutants, including heavy metals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and industrial chemicals. These contaminants pose significant risks to both aquatic life and human health. This review provides a comparative analysis of the toxicity of these common pollutants, highlighting their specific effects on aquatic organisms and the subsequent implications for human health. Heavy metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic exhibit high toxicity, leading to bioaccumulation and biomagnification. Pesticides like atrazine, glyphosate, and chlorpyrifos disrupt endocrine function and cause reproductive anomalies in aquatic species. Pharmaceuticals, including antibiotics and hormones, affect microbial communities and fish behavior, while industrial chemicals such as PCBs and PAHs induce carcinogenic and mutagenic effects. Understanding the comparative toxicity of these pollutants is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate their impact, ensuring the protection of both ecosystem and human health.