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Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon pollution in native and caged mussels
M T Piccardo1, R Coradeghini, F Valerio
1Lab Chimica Ambientale, National Cancer Research Institute, Genova, Italy. chimamb@hp380.ist.unige.it
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|November 6, 2001
Summary
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels were higher in native mussels than caged ones along the Ligurian coast. Both mussel types, however, revealed similar seasonal pollution trends and sources.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Marine Biology
- Ecotoxicology
Background:
- Biological monitoring is crucial for assessing marine pollution.
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are significant environmental contaminants.
- Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) are effective bioindicators of water quality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the concentration and composition of PAHs in mussels along the Ligurian coast.
- To compare PAH accumulation in native versus caged mussels.
- To evaluate the utility of mussels for identifying pollution sources and seasonal variability.
Main Methods:
- Conducting a biological monitoring study at four Ligurian coastal sites in 1999.
- Analyzing PAH concentrations and composition in native and caged Mytilus galloprovincialis.
- Sampling mussels in both Spring and Autumn to assess seasonal patterns.
Main Results:
- PAH concentrations were consistently higher in native mussels compared to caged mussels.
- Coastal sites were classified differently based on PAH levels in native versus caged mussels.
- Native mussels: Vado Ligure < Voltri < Sanremo <= Cornigliano.
- Caged mussels: Vado Ligure = Voltri = Sanremo << Cornigliano.
- Differences in classification were attributed to the mussels' varied locations (air-water interface vs. -3m depth).
Conclusions:
- Mussel location significantly influences observed PAH concentrations.
- Both native and caged mussels exhibit similar seasonal PAH variability.
- Mussels effectively indicate PAH sources and seasonal trends in marine environments.