Use of the gonadal tissue of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus as a target for environmental contamination by trace metals

• DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28472-2
• Publication Date: 2023-07-16T01:02:02Z
• Authors: Monique S. Sarly; Carmen A. Pedro; Catarina S. Bruno; Andreia Raposo; Helenita C. Quadros; Ana Pombo; Sílvia C. Gonçalves
• Keywords: Paracentrotus lividus; Gonadosomatic Index; Portunus pelagicus

Abstract Many environmental monitoring works have been carried out using biomarkers as a tool to identify the effects of oil contamination on marine organisms; however, only few studies used sea urchin gonadal tissue for this purpose. Within context, present work aimed understand impact an spill, proposing use biomarker by trace metals in species Paracentrotus lividus. Biometric analysis, quantification analyses elements Cd, Pb, Ni, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu, well histopathological evaluations were performed gonads P. lividus collected from area affected hydrocarbons, named impacted shore (IS) not affected, reference (RS). The results showed that carapace diameter (DC), total wet weight (WW), Cd concentrations significantly influenced interaction between rocky shores origin, months sampling, sex individuals. Moreover, July until September, levels Zn lower male than female gonads. In (the month spill), indexes alterations (IHPA) membrane dilation higher individuals IS, compared RS. addition, there significant correlations biometric variables (wet weight, carapace, gonadosomatic index) Mn concentrations. Lastly, delay gametogenic cycle urchins IS was also observed. Taken together, these findings suggest direct exposure induces lesions ’ affects its reproductive cycle. Graphical