ISSN:
1432-0703
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
,
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract This research investigated the accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) by Chironomus riparius from sediments and transfer of these contaminants to bluegill, Lepomis macrochirus. Experiments were conducted in laboratory microcosms containing sediments spiked with either benzo[a]pyrene (BAP) or fluoranthene (FLU). Chironomids rapidly accumulated PAHs from sediments. Concentrations of BAP and FLU in chironomids increased with sediment concentration; however, FLU accumulated to a much greater extent. At sediment concentrations ranging from 47 to 4,040 μg/kg, levels of FLU in chironomids ranged from below detection to 181,000 μg/kg. In contrast, the maximum concentration of BAP measured in chironomids at similar sediment levels was 6,030 μg/kg. Levels of FLU and BAP in bluegill that were fed contaminated chironomids were generally low, indicating either low uptake or rapid metabolism of these compounds. Bioturbation of sediments by chironomids decreased water clarity and released sediment-associated BAP to overlying water. BAP in water and in C. riparius increased significantly with chironomid density. In experiments where bluegill were exposed to BAP from water, direct contact with sediments, and chironomids, each source contributed to total body burden. The results of the experiments indicated that PAHs in sediments may be mobilized and made available to benthic invertebrates and fish.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00203550
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