Effect of 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) on sexual behaviors and reproductive function in male zebrafish (Danio rerio)

• We assessed BDE-47 exposure on sexual and reproductive behaviors in male zebrafish.
• The frequency and total time of female association was dose-dependently decreased.
• Female association and induced spawning behavior were related with egg production.
• Fecundity was lower for BDE-47-treated zebrafish than controls.
• Exposure to BDE-47 may affect sexual behavior and reproductive output in zebrafish.

BackgroundPolybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are ubiquitous in various environmental matrices and organisms and pose a threat to reproductive systems of organisms. However, few studies have explored the effects of PBDEs on sexual and reproductive behaviors in animals. Here we evaluated the effect of BDE-47 exposure on sexual and reproductive behaviors in zebrafish (Danio rerio).MethodsWe used a charge-coupled device camera to evaluate 3 standard male zebrafish sexual behaviors—chasing, female association and induced female spawning—and assessed effects on reproductive success in female zebrafish that mated with exposed males.ResultsAfter 21-day BDE-47 exposure, the frequency and total time of males associating with females was dose-dependently decreased. With the highest BDE-47 exposure, 1000 µg/L, the frequency of inducing spawning was decreased. Sexual behaviors and spawning outcome were closely associated in both control and exposure groups. Logistic regression analysis revealed BDE-47 exposure and total time of female association as the main factors contributing to induced female spawning behaviors, which affected final egg production. Multiple stepwise regression analysis suggested that female association and induced spawning by males were associated with egg production. Meanwhile, fecundity was lower for BDE-47-treated groups than controls, with only a significant difference with the highest dose. BDE-47 exposure at 100 and 1000 µg/L in males decreased fertilization rate, but BDE47 had no effect on hatching rate.ConclusionsExposure to BDE-47 may affect sexual behavior and reproductive output in zebrafish.