Antibiotics in the surface water of the Yangtze Estuary: Occurrence, distribution and risk assessment

The occurrence and distribution of five groups of antibiotics were investigated in the surface water of Yangtze Estuary over four seasons. Of the 20 antibiotics, only sulfamerazine was not detected at all sampling sites, indicating widespread occurrence of antibiotic residues in the study area. Detection frequencies and concentrations of antibiotics were generally higher in January, indicating that low flow conditions and low temperature might enhance the persistence of antibiotics in water. Antibiotic levels varied with location, with the highest concentrations being observed around river discharge and sewage outfall. Furthermore, a positive correlation between total antibiotic and DOC concentrations revealed the significant role played by DOC. Risk assessment based on single compound exposure showed that sulfapyridine and sulfamethoxazole could cause medium risk to daphnid in the Yangtze Estuary.

► Widespread occurrence of antibiotic residues was investigated in the study area.
► Antibiotic concentrations were generally higher in January.
►  The highest levels were observed around river discharge and sewage outfall.
► A positive correlation between total antibiotic and DOC concentrations was found.
► Medium risk could be caused by SP and SMX in the Yangtze Estuary.