Nematode response to metal, PAHs and organic enrichment in tourist marinas of the Mediterranean Sea.
The structure of nematode assemblages was investigated in the sediments of two different tourist marinas in the Mediterranean Sea and related to pollution variables. Nematode densities and generic compositions were determined, as were concentrations of heavy metals, PAHs and organic matter. Results showed different assemblages at the two marinas, with a dominance of the genera Paralongicyatholaimus and Daptonema. Significant correlations between nematodes and concentrations of environmental contaminants were found. In particular, Paralongicyatholaimus showed a significant negative correlation with Cu concentrations and was almost absent at the stations where higher Cu concentrations were found. The presence of sensitive/tolerant nematode genera represents a promising tool to identify areas subjected to a higher level of disturbance and to define the correct environmental management strategy for harbors.
Moreno
M
M
Department for the Study of the Territory and its Resources, University of Genoa, C.so Europa 26, 16132, Genoa, Italy. Electronic address: moreno@dipteris.unige.it.
Albertelli
G
G
Department for the Study of the Territory and its Resources, University of Genoa, C.so Europa 26, 16132, Genoa, Italy.
Fabiano
M
M
Department for the Study of the Territory and its Resources, University of Genoa, C.so Europa 26, 16132, Genoa, Italy.
D000818:Animals; D019015:Geologic Sediments / Q000032:analysis; D008522:Mediterranean Sea; D019216:Metals, Heavy / Q000633:toxicity*; D009348:Nematoda / Q000187:drug effects*; D010316:Particle Size; D011084:Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons / Q000633:toxicity*; D012767:Ships; D014195:Travel; D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical / Q000633:toxicity*
D019216:Metals, Heavy; D011084:Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons; D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical