Daily Mail: Hormones in wastewater hinder fish reproduction
UC biologist Latonya Jackson is studying the impact of wastewater treatment plants on local streams
The Daily Mail highlighted work by University of Cincinnati biologist Latonya Jackson, who is studying the effects of hormones that get into public drinking water.
In a study published in the journal Aquatic Toxicology, Jackson found that fish exposed to as little as 5 nanograms per liter of estrogen produced fewer male offspring and fewer offspring overall than a control group.
A least killifish in a UC biology lab. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Creative + Brand
Studies have found similar hormones at more than 10 times that concentration in streams near sewage treatment plants.
Jackson's research suggests that even trace exposure to estrogen could have significant consequences for wild fish populations.
"Anything you flush down the toilet or put in the sink will get in the water supply," Jackson said.
Jackson uses least killifish, among the smallest fish on the planet, as her study model.
Featured image at top: UC assistant professor Latonya Jackson points to least killifish in her biology lab. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Creative + Brand
UC assistant professor Latonya Jackson studies aquatic toxicology, ecotoxicology and endocrine disrupting chemicals in her biology lab. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Creative + Brand
Related Stories
Ohio nurses weigh in on proposed federal loan rule
December 12, 2025
Spectrum News journalist Javari Burnett spoke with UC Dean Alicia Ribar and UC nursing students Megan Romero and Nevaeh Haskins about proposed new federal student loan rules. Romero and Haskins, both seniors, were filmed in the College of Nursing’s Simulation Lab.
Bearcat Mascot, Cheer Team and scholarships help celebrate Decision Day
December 12, 2025
Cincinnati media organization provided news coverage of Decision Day activities at the University of Cincinnati on Dec. 10, 2025. Surprise announcements of the 2026 Marian Spencer Scholarship recipient occurred during the day.
UC awarded nearly $1 million to help fight infant obesity spike
December 12, 2025
University of Cincinnati researcher Cathy Stough spoke with Spectrum News1 about a nearly $1 million National Institutes of Health grant awarded to UC to help prevent infant obesity through early nutrition support and family-based interventions.