Acute toxicity of trimethyltin choloride on the sea urchin (Strongylocentyotus intermedius) embryos and larvae

摘要

Trimethyltin chloride (TMT) is an organotin contaminant, widely detected in aqueous environments, posing potential human and environmental risks. In the present study, the embryo and larvae of sea urchin Strongylocentyotus intermedius were used as a model to investigate the toxic effects of TMT. Data obtained from the TMT acute toxicity tests were evaluated using the Probit Analysis Statistical Method. The results show that TMT pollution decreased the fertilization ability of sperms, but no obvious effect on the eggs and fertilization ability. The 4-arm stage larva and the sperms are sensitive to TMT. It is suggest that low levels (36.63 μg/L) of TMT in the aquatic environment may have a significant effect on the reproduction and development of sea urchin.