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

摘要

The effect of residual concentrations of organophosphate pesticide chlorpyrifos (Lorsban 4E) on the activity of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme and oxygen : nitrogen ratio in the musselAulacomya aterwas 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−1were able to inhibit significantly the AChE activity, and concentrations between 0.8 and 1.61 μg L−1stimulate ammonia excretion and decrease oxygen : ammonia-N (O : N) ratio, with respect to the control group.A. aterproved 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.