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Monitoring oil spill bioremediation using marsh foraminifera as indicators
J A R Sabean1, D B Scott, K Lee
1Center for Coastal Studies and Department of Earth Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|September 1, 2009
Summary
Crude oil significantly harms Atlantic coastal salt marshes, causing deformities in foraminifera (microscopic fossils). These foraminifera serve as effective biological indicators for monitoring oil pollution and assessing marsh restoration efforts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Marine Biology
- Paleontology
Background:
- Atlantic coastal salt marshes are vulnerable ecosystems.
- Crude oil spills pose significant environmental risks.
- Biological remediation is a key strategy for environmental restoration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the environmental impact of weathered crude oil on a salt marsh.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of foraminifera as bioindicators of oil pollution.
- To inform in situ biological remediation strategies for marsh restoration.
Main Methods:
- A controlled experiment was conducted in June 2000.
- Weathered crude oil was applied to an Atlantic coastal salt marsh.
- Foraminifera, specifically Miliammina fusca, were monitored for deformities.
Main Results:
- Foraminifera showed a rapid response to the presence of crude oil.
- A statistically significant increase in deformities was observed in M. fusca tests.
- The oil had a negative impact on the foraminifera population.
Conclusions:
- Foraminifera are excellent, sensitive indicators of oil pollution in coastal environments.
- The percentage of deformed foraminifera tests reliably quantifies oil impact.
- Foraminifera offer advantages in ease of sampling, processing, examination, and leave a fossil record.
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