Publication Date:
2021-05-19
Description:
This study is an attempt to evaluate the biomonitoring capabilities of rock oyster, Saccostrea cucullata, for
mercury (Hg) pollution. The oyster and sediment samples were collected from 10 rocky habitats of Qeshm
and Hormoz Islands in the Persian Gulf. The concentration of mercury in the shell and soft tissues of the
oysters and sediments were analyzed using an advanced mercury analyzer. Biota-sediment accumulation
factor (BSAF) was calculated based on the ratio of Hg concentrations in soft tissues to that in sediments.
The results showed that the rate of mercury accumulation in the soft tissues of the oyster was significantly
higher than that in its shell (P 〈 0.05). There was a significant correlation between mercury concentrations
in the soft tissues and the sediments (r =0.75). According to BSAF, soft tissues of the oyster were
recognized as an appropriate indicator for biomonitoring mercury. The present study generally supports
the usability of soft tissue of S. cucullata as a sensitive biomonitoring organ to warn mercury pollution in
the Persian Gulf.
Description:
Published
Keywords:
Mercury
;
Saccostrea cucullata
;
Biomonitoring
;
Monitoring
Repository Name:
AquaDocs
Type:
Journal Contribution
,
Refereed
Format:
pp.145-155
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