Comparison of bacteria uptake and depuration between Crassostreaariakensis and Crassostrea virginica

摘要

Considerations to introduce the Suminoe, or Asian oyster, Crassostrea ariakensis, along the East Coast have raised many questions regarding ecology, economics, and human health. To date, research has focused primarily on the ecological and socio-economic implications of this initiative, yet few studies have assessed its potential impact on public health. Our work compares the rates of bioaccumulation and depuration of indicator organisms (such as E. coli) and Vibrio sp. between C. virginica and C. ariakensis in the laboratory. Preliminary results suggest that the rates of bioaccumulation of E. coli in C. ariakensis were significantly lower than those for C. virginica and that depuration was variable between the two species. This research provides coastal managers with insight into C. ariakensis response to bacteria, an important consideration for determining appropriate management strategies for this species. Further field-based studies will be necessary to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for the differences in rates of bioaccumulation and depuration.