Ecological Impact of Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) Treated Wood for Marine Applications: A Review

Abstract

Wood when used in the aquatic environment has always been susceptible to deterioration by various biotic and abiotic agents. The biodegradability of wood is the major impediment restricting its use in the aquatic environment. Environmental risks associated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA) treated wood have been studied in detail by many researchers. The conflicting conclusions made by the researchers on the impact of CCA - the most commonly used wood preservative - on the aquatic biota highlight the relevance of the topic and suggest the need for further studies on quantifying the effect of leachate from the treated wood on different aquatic organisms. In the present communication, the effect of CCA on target and non-target marine organisms and the movement of the CCA components along the trophic chain and their bioaccumulation in organisms have been reviewed in detail. The toxicity of CCA constituents in the tissues and shells of organisms and the impact on the biodiversity are also discussed. The review on the data available, suggests a need of further studies to prove the exact mode of transfer of the constituents leached and speciation of leachate.