Abstract
The response of bivalves to heavy metals and other toxins has usually been determined by observing valve position (e.g., Davenport and Manley 1958; Borcherding 1992). Since mussels close their valves to avoid noxious stimuli, experimental delivery of chemicals is uncertain. To obtain constant results, Preston (1994 and personal communication) employed plastic spacers to hold the valves apart. This obviates the observation of valve position as an index of response, and some other method is required. Electromyography of intact mussels is one such index, and is shown to be a simple, effective and quantitative measurement of activity. Experiments are reported on the effects of added mercury on salt water and fresh water species. Parts of this work have appeared in brief form (Kidder and McCoy 1995).
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