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(80-15) The use of Posidonia oceanica as bioindicator of chemical impact in a coastal environment . Bucalossi, Daniela*,1, Fossi, Maria Cristina2, Casini, Silvia1, Ancora, Stefania3, Bianchi, Nicola1, Naldini, Marco1, Butini, Angela1, Buia, Cristina4, Gambi, Maria Cristina4, Leonzio, Claudio1, 1 Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Siena. Via Mattioli 4, Siena, Italy2 Department of Animal Biology and Marine Ecology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy3 Department of Human and Environmental Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy4 Anton Dohrn Zoological Station, Laboratory of Ecology of the Benthos, Ischia, Naples., Naples, Italy ABSTRACT- In this study Posidonia oceanica is proposed as a bioindicator for the assessment of ecotoxicological impact on the coastal environment of the Gulf of Posillipo (Naples). Heavy metals analysis (Hg, Cd, Pb, As) combined with lepidochronology techniques and a suite of biomarkers such as the activity of the antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and peroxidases) and the mixed function oxidase (NADH cytochrome c reductase) were investigated. Specimens of Posidonia oceanica were sampled in four stations with potential different human impact between Naples and the island of Ischia (Gulf of Naples). By the use of lepidochronology technique the scales have been dated retroactively over a maximum period of ten years (1999-1989). Scale thickness shows cyclic variation according to insertion rank along the rhizome. Metal concentrations showed an overall positive trend for cadmium and mercury and a negative trend for lead. High levels of Pb and As were found in the most industrialised area (Miseno). Biomarker responses showed a similar trend for peroxidases and superoxide dismutase. The greatest induction was in Miseno. NADH cytochrome c reductase activity showed in the various stations a clear gradient of induction with respect to the control site (Ischia) reflecting the potential contamination levels, with highest values at Miseno. Key words: Posidonia oceanica, biomarkers, heavy metals, lepidochronology |
