Quantitative Changes in the Hepatopancreas Cells of the Bivalve Mollusk Batissa Violaceae Exposed to Anthropogenic Activities in Catubig River, Northern Samar, Philippines

Abstract

This study aims to determine the quantitative changes in the hepatopancreas cells of bivalve mollusk as a bioindicator of pollution on aquatic species. Clams Batissa violaceae inhabiting in Catubig River, Northern Samar was used as the bioindicator of pollution. Clams were collected during high flow and low flow periods at two different sites along the Catubig River. Pooled hepatopancreas were used for quantitative analyses; from chronically exposed group, depurated laboratory control group and those clams that were brought back to the river and immersed for 72 hrs. Histological sections of hepatopancreas were examined by Ken-a-vision microprojector microscope. Results have shown that acute exposures in the number of digestive tubules were significantly different from chronically exposed group of clams. The hepatopancreas epithelium heights also showed significant differences during high and low flow regimes. Overall, quantitative changes found in the hepatopancreas cells after acute and chronic exposures, could serve as a biomarker of exposure to pollutants.