Publication Date:
2018-03-07
Description:
In this study we present the first combined investigation into the composition of the major matrices
involved in calcification processes (surrounding water, extrapallial fluid, aragonite, and calcite) of Mytilus
edulis with respect to their calcium isotope (d44/40Ca) and elemental compositions (Sr/Ca and Mg/Ca). Our
aim was to examine the suitability of Mytilus edulis as a proxy archive and to contribute to the
understanding of the process of biomineralization. Mytilus edulis specimens were live collected from the
Schwentine Estuary, Kiel Fjord, and North Sea (Sylt). d44/40Ca was determined by thermal ionization mass
spectrometry (TIMS) accompanied by measurements of Mg/Ca and Sr/Ca using inductively coupled
plasma–optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The elemental and isotopic compositions of the
investigated matrices showed systematic offsets. The carbonates are strongly depleted in their magnesium
and strontium concentrations and fractionated toward lighter calcium isotope compositions relative to the
surrounding Schwentine Estuary water. The opposite is observed for the extrapallial fluid (EPF). Our
findings extend the results of previous studies reporting a strong biological control and the interaction of
different environmental conditions influencing biomineralization. Future studies should focus on the
temporal development of the interrelation between the different matrices.
Type:
Article
,
PeerReviewed
Format:
text
DOI:
10.1029/2007GC001777
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