Distribution of lead, zinc, copper and manganese in the marine gastropods, Thais lapillus and Littorina littorea, around the coast of wales

Abstract

Two species of marinee gastropods, Thais lapillus and Littirina littorea, were taken in the same month at nine sites around the coast of Wales and analysed for lead, zinc, copper and manganese. Significant species and site differences could be detected and are discused in relation to known polluted areas and species specificity for metals. Site x species interactions were inconsistent. Metal analysis of the digestive gland/gonad and the rest of the body in selected areas showed high levels of zinc and copper in the digestive gland/gonad of Thais compared with Littorina and high levels of manganese in the digestive gland/gonad of Littorina compared with Thais. The distribution of metals between digestive gland/gonad and rest of the body for one species showed variable results. The highest level of lead in both species was found in shell while the distribution of manganese was greater in the shells of Littorina than in those of Thais. The results are discussed in relation to possible source and mineralogy of the shell, together with the presence of specific enzyme systems.