Implementation of Anti-Fouling Tests with Copper Sulphate Pentahydrate Using the Coral Flavia gravida (Cnidara, Scleractinia)

The use of antifouling compounds in paints on ships and oil platforms has caused environmental damage to marine species. Thus, the demand for environmentally friendly compounds and technologies has increased. The objective of this article was to perform toxicological experiments with the antifouling biocide copper sulfate pentahydrate to identify concentrations that have the least impact on the native coral Favia gravida. The acute test showed mortality at concentrations of 0.02 and 0.025 mg/mL, although reactions in mobility, cilia movement, and initial development were observed at concentrations above 0.01 mg/mL. The chronic test showed continued development only in the control and at a concentration of 0.005 mg/mL. The high mortality rate in the control group indicates the need for further testing. This is the first toxicological test with an antifouling agent in F. gravida.