Organism-dependent ecotoxicological effects of transition metal-containing layered double hydroxides

LDH nanoparticles containing different transition metals caused low phytotoxicity in maize (Zea mays) and tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum), but sublethal effects in Caenorhabditis elegans, with mortality staying below 12%.

• Why it matters: LDHs are explored as nanocarriers for protecting and transporting sensitive molecules in agricultural settings, yet their organism-dependent ecotoxicological risks across crops and soil biota are not well resolved.
• What they did: Maize and tomato were foliar-sprayed with Al-Ni, Al-Co, or Al-Cu LDHs at 5, 50, and 500 ug/mL, while Caenorhabditis elegans was assessed for lethality, locomotion, larval development, and body length.
• The result: In Caenorhabditis elegans, toxicity depended on metallic composition (Al-Cu > Al-Ni > Al-Co), producing reduced motility, developmental delay, and shorter body length despite mortality remaining under 12%.

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