Parasites as Bioindicators of Hydrocarbon Contamination: An Effective Tool for Environmental Monitoring

Abstract

Parasites are considered bioindicators of pollution, because they are organisms capable of accumulating toxic substances, such as hydrocarbons, in their tissues. This means that they are able to provide precise and relevant information for environmental monitoring in aquatic environments. This study's recommendations include: 1) The implementing of policies as part of environmental impact assessments that systematically integrate the use of parasites into environmental monitoring; 2) The improving of the technical training provided to regulatory personnel; and 3) The fostering of collaboration between academic and governmental institutions. These measures will not only improve the accuracy of hydrocarbon monitoring, but also constitute a crucial alternative in the preventive and mitigative monitoring of responsible companies' actions, thereby strengthening the protection and sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems in Peru.