Biomarkers response and population biological parameters in the earthworm Eisenia fetida after short term exposure to atrazine herbicide

Atrazine is one of the most used herbicides and its over-application in fields can affect soils their associated biota. In this work, earthworms (Eisenia fetida) were exposed to different concentrations atrazine assess possible sublethal harmful effects. search for reliable biomarkers these effects, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities measured as well behaviour population biological parameters such biomass, growth production cocoons. It was found that biomass changes not significantly affected by presence after 28 days increment around 18.3–27.3%. Protein content reduced days. The lower concentration (2 mg Kg?1) shortest term (7 days) rate cocoon increased LDH activity and, especially, AChE 40%. a higher (10 herbicide third number total cocoons, affecting reproduction. ALP least sensitive biomarker exposure. When up 10 Kg?1 atrazine, E. fetida showed tendency rebalance maintained general health.