Heavy metal concentrations and biomarkers of oxidative stress in native mussels (Mytilus edulis chilensis) from Beagle Channel coast (Tierra del Fuego, Argentina)

CLAUDIA A. DUARTE; ERICA GIARRATANO; OSCAR A. AMIN; LAURA I. COMOGLIO

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN

PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD

Año: 2011

0025-326X

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of oxidative stress biomarkers in native mussels (Mytilus edulis chilensis) from Beagle Channel. Spatial and seasonal variations of catalase, glutathione-S-transferase and lipid peroxidation, in gill and digestive gland, were analyzed in relation to environmental parameters, heavy metals in sediment and in whole tissue. Four sites impacted by anthropogenic activities and a control site were selected and monitored during the four seasons of 2007. We found significant differences among sites in concentrations of dissolved nutrients and heavy metals in sediments, with the highest values recorded at sites with anthropogenic pressure. Different patterns were observed between concentrations of metals in tissues and in sediments suggesting differences in bioavailability. There were also significant differences in biomarker responses among sites, despite the strong seasonal variability. Our results showed relatively medium levels of pollution in the study area as a result of urban influences.