Evaluation of the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of exposure to the herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid in Astyanax lacustris (Pisces, Characidae) and the potential for its removal from contaminated water using a biosorbent

•2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid (2,4-D), a herbicide widely used in weed control can cause damage to fish health.•2,4-D induces damage to DNA, chromosomes, micronuclei and nuclear changes in sublethal concentrations in A. lacustris.•Complete removal of the 2,4-D (10 mg L−1) occurred after the third filtration of water contaminated using the biosorbent.•Removal of 2,4-D in water by the biosorbent showed a considered decrease in genotoxic and cytotoxic damage in A. lacustris.