Israeli researchers find drug residues in Red Sea corals

Israeli researchers have discovered traces of 10 common drugs in corals from the Red Sea’s Gulf of Aqaba (Gulf of Eilat), according to a Tel Aviv University study published in Environmental Pollution. The drugs found include antibiotics, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and more, with residues present in all 96 coral samples examined. Notably, sulfamethoxazole, an antibiotic, was detected in 93% of the corals. The researchers warn that drug contamination can harm marine life, affecting reproduction, behavior, and learning. They stress the need for improved wastewater treatment and safe drug disposal to prevent environmental and human health risks.

Source – CGTN