Sperm motility in the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) is affected by nonylphenol

Nonylphenol, a widespread aquatic pollutant with endocrine-disrupting potential has been found to affect sperm motility in the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas (Thunberg). This marine invertebrate, a global aquaculture species, was exposed to nonylphenol at concentrations of 1 and 100 microg l(-1) for a duration of 72 h during the period of gametogenesis. Growth was monitored at regular intervals until sexual maturity when sperm motility was assessed. The growth rate of C. gigas remained unaffected by exposure to nonylphenol during gametogenesis. However, the number of individuals with motile sperm was significantly reduced.