Metal concentration in mussel <i>Perna viridis</i> (Bivalvia/Anisomyaria) and oyster <i>Crassostrea madrasensis</i> (Bivalvia/Anisomyaria) from some parts in southeast coast of India

Abstract

The concept of mussel watch has been applied to monitor the levels of heavy metals in the southeast coast of India covering a distance of 250 km. The data reflected a definite seasonal variation with an increased metal load during the monsoon period and decreased level during the summer period. The order of metal accumulation was found to be Zn>Cu>Pb>Cd>Hg. Salinity of the media was found to play an important role in the accumulation of metals in tissue. A linear relationship was found between the metal level in the tissues and that in the dissolved fractions. Oyster showed maximum concentration factor (CF) when compared to mussels. Both animals showed high adsorption and absorption capacity for heavy metals as revealed by the CF, suggesting that they can be used as indicator for water quality and heavy metal pollution on a long-term basis.