Journal of the Marine Biological Association of India

Histological aberrations accompanying chronic metal toxicity in the mussel Perna indica

Volume 47 Issue 2

Philip Mathew and N. R. Menon

Abstract

Evidences gathered from the observations made on the structure of gills and digestive tubules of Perna indica clearly indicate that prolonged exposure to low levels of mercury, copper and cadmium individually or in concert would damage the tissues extensively. Even low levels of heavy metals when encountered by the mussel resulted in extensive disintegration of these sensitive tissues. Presence of more than one metal concomitantly resulted in greater damage of the tissues. Chronic exposure studies employing polluted media would help in establishing histopathological criteria to assess pollutional effects for incorporation in monitoring strategies.

Keywords

Metal toxicity, histological aberrations, mussel, Perna indica

 

Date : 30-12-2005