Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

A scientific seminar entitled “The Impact of Nanoparticles on the Main Trophic Components of Aquatic Ecosystems” was held at the Faculty of Ecology and Soil Science of Baku State University as part of activities dedicated to **Science Day in Azerbaijan.

The seminar was delivered by Nargiz Aghayeva, a former doctoral student of the Department of Bioecology. In her presentation, she discussed the physiological characteristics of the uptake, transport, and accumulation of nanoparticles in Elodea canadensis, the first component of a simple plant–mollusk–fish food chain, depending on nanoparticle concentration, type, and exposure duration.

Within the framework of the study, the toxic effects of nanoparticles on the three main components of a simple aquatic food chain were investigated comparatively in order to evaluate the influence of nanomaterials on trophic interactions and identify their potential environmental risks.

The research also examined the effects of nanoparticles on the embryonic development, hatching process, and post-embryonic growth of Lymnaea auricularia, as well as their impact on fertilization and embryonic development in Rainbow trout. The findings demonstrated that Fe₃O₄ (20–30 nm) and aluminum (18 nm) nanoparticles are adsorbed onto the leaves of Elodea canadensis, absorbed into plant tissues, and transported to stems and other organs. The nanoparticles were found to localize within intracellular organelles, particularly mitochondria, leading to various physiological effects in the plant.

The study further revealed that direct exposure to aluminum and Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles delays embryonic development in Lymnaea auricularia, disrupts morphogenetic processes, and reduces the formation of mature individuals. At the same time, these nanoparticles were found to stimulate hatching success in rainbow trout, significantly increasing this indicator. According to the presenter, the results may have practical applications in aquaculture by helping reduce losses during embryonic development and improving overall productivity in rainbow trout farming.

The seminar concluded with a question-and-answer session and extensive scientific discussions among participants.

SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 15 (Life on Land)