| Adult specimens of Crassostrea rhizophorae were exposed to diesel oil dispersed in seawater. The experiment consisted of a 10 days contamination period and 15 days depuration period. Oyster samples were extracted, and analysed by gas chromatography and UV fluorescence spectroscopy. The concentrations of n-alkanes, branched alkanes, unresolved complex mixture (UCM) and aromatic hydrocarbons were determined. The oysters accumulated the hydrocarbons rapidly, reaching a maximum concentration of 387.5 ug/g (wet weight). After exposure to uncontaminated seawater, the oysters were able to reduce their hydrocarbon load to 5.6 ug/g. The data indicates that C. rhizophorae is capable of preferential accumulation and depuration of hydrocarbons. Apparently, the oysters... |
