Trace metal concentrations of selected macrofauna from a Southeast Texas estuary.

Date

1976

Authors

Scrudato, R.J.,
Henningsen, B.F.
Estes, E.L.

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

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Abstract

Cadmium, chromium, copper, lead and zinc concentrations of Crassostrea virginica (oyster), Callinectes sapidus (blue crab), and Penaeus setiferus (shrimp) from a shallow water, southeast Texas estuary (Sabine Lake) indicates levels significantly above associated estuarine waters. Wet weight trace metal concentrations of the 3 organisms during the 2-yr period varied as follows: Cd--0.38 to 4.0 ppm; Cr--0.1 to 3.7 ppm ; Cu--0.1 to 157 ppm; Pb-- less than or equal to 0.1 to 22.0 ppm and Zn--21.7 to 1367 ppm. Maximum copper concentrations (157.6 ppm) were found in oysters collected during fall, 1973, whereas maximum lead concentrations (22 ppm) were found in blue crabs collected during the period of November, 1971, to February, 1972. Lead concentrations were significantly lower in Crassostrea virginica collected during November, 1971, to February, 1972, a period of excessive rainfall, relative to samples collected in the fall of 1973. This suggests oysters are able to purge lead during periods of lead dilution.

Description

p. 419-426.

Keywords

metals, Crassostrea virginica, oysters, Callinectes sapidus, blue crab, Penaeus setiferus, Penaeus setiferus, shrimp, lead

Citation