Biomarker responses to environmental stressors in the hairy mangrove crab, Sesarma huzardii (Graspidae)‎ from a tropical lagoon mudflat in Nigeria

Abstract EN

The study evaluated antioxidant and oxidative stress responses in the Hairy Mangrove Crab Sesarma huzadii inhabiting contaminated nearshore locations in Lagos lagoon mudflats through the catalase enzyme activity (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH) and Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (MDA/TBARS).

The results indicates that obtained metal levels differed significantly (P < 0.05) across stations, with relatively higher mean values recorded at locations closest to domestic and solid waste dumps.

Estimated Bio- sediment accumulation factor was highest for Copper in the tissues of S.

huzadii.

Relatively low levels of SOD activities were recorded in crabs from Abule-Agege and Okobaba suggests potential stress from the locations.

Significant differences were also observed in anti-oxidative stress enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation levels in tissues of S.

huzadii across sites.

Obtained levels of antioxidant enzymes and MDA in S.

huzadii further indicates increasing level of environmental stressors in the areaHowever, the biochemical responses of biota to the interactions between season, contaminant level, multiple stressors or complex environmental settings needs to be fully understood and taken into consideration through continuous monitoring programs..