Tributyltin and invertebrates of a seagrass ecosystem: Exposure and response of different species

摘要: Abstract 14C-labeled tributyltin-chloride (TBT-Cl) was delivered to the water column of seagrass microcosms held in laboratory under flow-through conditions. Benthic macroinvertebrate abundances across a three treatment, logarithmic dose gradient were compared untreated control microcosms. Within 3 6 weeks, statistically significant mortality appeared high treatment. Sensitive species included surface deposit feeders several phyla, as well suspension feeding mollusc. Results suggest that effects can arise because TBT is rapidly accumulated sediments, Thalassia tissues. Concentration tracer plant tissues, animals, and sediments suggests measurement (and total butyltin) these components beds would provide better indicator exposure regimes than occasional measurements water. A propensity for accumulation, along with biological vulnerability, sentinel role ecosystems some shallow coastal areas. Experimental findings demonstrate concern key invertebrates within proximal sources, ecological risks could radiate through food webs dependent on productive vegetated shallows.