An exploration of the role of mysids in benthic-pelagic coupling and biomagnification using a dynamic bioaccumulation model.
A mass-balance model for the uptake of organic contaminants in the opposum shrimp (Mysis relicta) is developed. The model describes the concentration in the mysid as a function of time as it grows and its lipid content changes over a two-year life span. The model can describe uptake in varying proportions from pelagic and benthic sources. Four mysid scenarios are considered: entirely pelagic, entirely benthic, half-pelagic and half-benthic, and following the observed seasonal behavior patterns. The seasonal-scenario mysid yields results consistent with levels of total polychlorinated biphenyls reported for Lake Ontario (Canada/USA). The relative sediment and water fugacities are shown to play a critical role in determining the contamination level in mysids. Inclusion of mysids in a simple food-web model demonstrates higher concentrations in upper-trophic-level organisms by two effects: introduction of another trophic level in the food web, and increased benthic-pelagic coupling.
Patwa
Zaheerabbas
Z
Canadian Environmental Modelling Centre, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 7B8, Canada.
Christensen
Rebecca
R
Lasenby
David C
DC
Webster
Eva
E
Mackay
Donald
D
D000818:Animals; D003445:Crustacea / Q000502:physiology*; D020387:Food Chain; D008954:Models, Biological; D011078:Polychlorinated Biphenyls / Q000032:analysis / Q000633:toxicity; D012621:Seasons; D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical / Q000032:analysis / Q000633:toxicity
D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical; D011078:Polychlorinated Biphenyls