Bernal-Hernandez_2010_Ecotoxicology_19_819

Substantial efforts have been devoted to developing and applying biomarkers for ecological risk assessment. Bivalve mollusks, such as mussels and oysters, are commonly used in environmental monitoring programs because of their wide geographical distribution, great sensitivity to environmental pollutants, and ability to accumulate anthropogenically derived chemicals at a high rate. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and metallothionein (MT's) content are representative specific biomarkers that indicate the presence of anticholinesterasic compounds (like organophosphorus and carbamate pesticides) and metals, respectively. The aim of this study was to evaluate AChE activity and MT's content in Crassostrea corteziensis from Boca de Camichin estuary. The results obtained here showed that AChE activity was 65% lower in oysters from Boca de Camichin than in control organisms. In contrast, MT's content in collected organisms was not statistically different from that in control organisms. AChE activity and MT's content in oysters could be used as early biomarkers of effects and exposure to pesticides and heavy metals, respectively, in aquatic environments.