Effects of UV-B radiation on embryonic, larval and juvenile stages of North Sea plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) under simulated ozone-hole conditions

Abstract

Irradiation with artificial quasi-solar light was used to investigate lethal and sublethal effects of enhanced ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation on eggs, larval and juvenile stages of North Sea plaice. The irradiation experiments resembled a worst-case scenario with a synchronous occurrence of ozone depletion, sunny weather, and low water turbulence. In eggs, UV-B exposure increased mortality and induced loss of positive buoyancy. UV-B exposures for 1 or 2 days, according to the weather conditions in spring, impaired eggs only if UV-B intensities and doses exceeded those under a further 60% ozone loss. In larvae and juveniles, long-term UV-B exposures during and after metamorphosis affected ventilation rate at normoxia and ventilatory regulation during hypoxic incubations. Oxygen consumption rates of juveniles were not affected by UV-B irradiation.