Integrated Use of Biomarkers (O : N Ratio and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition)‎ on Aulacomya ater (Molina, 1782)‎ (Bivalvia: Mytilidae)‎ as a Criteria for Effects of Organophosphate Pesticide Exposition

Abstract EN

The effect of residual concentrations of organophosphate pesticide chlorpyrifos (Lorsban 4E) on the activity of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme and oxygen : nitrogen ratio in the mussel Aulacomya ater was analyzed.

Toxicity tests show a sensitivity to the pesticide in the bivalve estimated at 16 μg L-1 (LC50-96 hours).

Concentrations between 0.2 and 1.61 μg L-1 were able to inhibit significantly the AChE activity, and concentrations between 0.8 and 1.61 μg L-1 stimulate ammonia excretion and decrease oxygen : ammonia-N (O : N) ratio, with respect to the control group.

A.

ater proved to be a species sensitive to pesticide exposure and easy to handle in lab conditions.

Thus, it is recommended as a bioindicator for use in programs of environmental alertness in the Eastern South Pacific coastal zone.