Effects of tidal zones and seasons on nutritional properties of commercially importance gastropods

Abstract

Gastropods are important protein sources for coastal communities. This study performed a case study in Nan'ao Island to compare the spatial and temporal variations of lipids, proteins, carotenoids and antioxidant capacity of commercially important gastropods. Seven commercially important gastropods were identified from the rocky shores of Nan'ao Island. All the gastropods analysed had medium to high fat, low protein, and a considerable amount of total carotenoids. From low tide zone to high tide zone, the total antioxidant capacity of gastropods increased dramatically. In terms of fatty acid composition, all analysed gastropods had PUFA/SFA >0.45, but only three species had n-3/n-6 >1.00. In conclusion, some gastropods, especially Lunella coronata coreensis and Monodonta labio, have good nutritional value and potential health effects. This study is the first comprehensive assessment of the nutritional properties of commercially important gastropods in different rocky shore microenvironments and different seasons.