Tetracycline antibiotics are widely used in veterinary, human, and agricultural applications, leading to their presence in the environment. These antibiotics are excreted in urine and feces, entering the environment in active form. Due to their high water solubility and low volatility, they persist in aquatic environments. Limited studies have examined their fate and toxicity, but research indicates they pose ecological and health risks. Tetracycline residues can promote antibiotic resistance and endocrine disruption in aquatic species. Most wastewater treatment plants are ineffective in removing these compounds, necessitating alternative treatment methods. Advanced oxidation processes are proposed for their degradation and mineralization. Tetracycline antibiotics are broad-spectrum, effective against various pathogens, and widely used in veterinary and agricultural sectors. They are detected in various environmental compartments, including water and soil. Their presence in the environment is a concern due to potential ecological and health impacts. The review highlights the occurrence, toxicity, fate, and removal technologies of tetracycline antibiotics in the environment. The need for effective removal methods is emphasized due to their persistence and potential risks.Tetracycline antibiotics are widely used in veterinary, human, and agricultural applications, leading to their presence in the environment. These antibiotics are excreted in urine and feces, entering the environment in active form. Due to their high water solubility and low volatility, they persist in aquatic environments. Limited studies have examined their fate and toxicity, but research indicates they pose ecological and health risks. Tetracycline residues can promote antibiotic resistance and endocrine disruption in aquatic species. Most wastewater treatment plants are ineffective in removing these compounds, necessitating alternative treatment methods. Advanced oxidation processes are proposed for their degradation and mineralization. Tetracycline antibiotics are broad-spectrum, effective against various pathogens, and widely used in veterinary and agricultural sectors. They are detected in various environmental compartments, including water and soil. Their presence in the environment is a concern due to potential ecological and health impacts. The review highlights the occurrence, toxicity, fate, and removal technologies of tetracycline antibiotics in the environment. The need for effective removal methods is emphasized due to their persistence and potential risks.