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3D - Exposure and effects of environmental contaminants in marine organisms (TUP/178) Sex hormone status in marine fish from contaminated sites in the North Atlantic. Jenssen, Bjorn Munro1, Sormo, Eugen1, Rosenqvist, Gunilla1, 1 Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology., Trondheim, Norway, Norway ABSTRACT- Many chemical compounds interfere with the natural regulation of hormones, and these chemicals have become known as "endocrine disrupters". It has been reported that both organic compounds and heavy metals may interfere with hormone homeostasis. Endocrine disrupters act via biochemical action and affects the physiology and/or behaviour of exposed specimens. Exposure to endocrine disrupters may thus affect survival and reproduction of animals that live in sites where chemicals are released. There is a need to monitor and evaluate the possible ecological effects of marine pollution in coastal environments. Biomarkers can be used in such biomonitoring. The aim of the present study was to study the possible effects of contaminant exposure on the hormone economy of fish, and to evaluate the possible application of hormone status as biomarker of pollution exposure. Blood samples were taken from specimens of cod (Gadus morhua) and corkwing wrasse (Symphodus melops) that inhabit harbours at industrial sites in Sweden and Norway. Samples were also taken from specimens caught at reference sites close to each of the industrial sites. The industrial sites were chosen to represent exposure to organic pollution (PAHs) and heavy metals. Samples were taken during late spring (Sweden) and autumn (Norway). Blood plasma samples were analysed for 11-keto-testosterone, testosterone and estradiol. The results showed that the hormone concentration varied significantly between species, and also between specimens of same species depending on size and season. Preliminary analysis indicates that there were differences between the sites that the differences may be related to contaminant exposure. The application of hormone status as a biomarker of exposure and/or effects in coastal marine fish will be discussed. Key words: hormones, biomarkers, cod, wrasse |
