Evaluation of acute toxicity and teratogenic effects of disinfectants by Daphnia magna embryo assay

► The toxicity of the disinfectants to Daphnia magna were hypochlorite >> formaldehyde > m-cresol. ► Sunlight-exposed hypochlorite and formaldehyde showed light decomposition and reduced toxicity. ► The effects on growth mostly occurred in the late stages of organogenesis. ► Acute toxicity of disinfectants on embryo assay system is more sensitive than neonate bioassay.