Assess the environmental health status of macrophyte ecosystems using an oxidative stress biomarker. Case studies: The Gulf of Aqaba and the Lagoon of Venice

The aim of this work was to evaluate the implementation of the oxidative stress biomarker (LPO) for the assessment and monitoring of the ecological status of macrophyte in relation to potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the Gulf of Aqaba (Jordan) and the Lagoon of Venice (Italy). Results showed that the anthropic influences related to PTEs of the examined areas are evident. Moreover, changes in the LPO levels can precede significant changes in ecological health status of macrophyte ecosystems that can be used in the future as an early warning tool for the assessment and monitoring of polluted ecosystems worldwide.