The Effect of Aerococcus viridans (var.) homari on the Oxygen Binding Capacity of Hemocyanin in the American Lobster (Homarus americanus)

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Abstract The effect of gaffkemia (Aerococcus viridans) infection on the oxygen binding capacity of the hemocyanin component of the American lobster's hemolymph was examined both in vivo and in vitro. Spectrophotometric and electrophoretic examination of the hemocyanin indicated that accompanying gaffkemia infection was a 50% reduction in the oxygen binding capacity of the hemocyanin. Serum protein levels were unaffected by the infection. In vitro growth of A. viridans in lobster sera resulted in similar findings. Death from gaffkemia may be a result of hypoxia arising from bacterial impairment of the lobster's respiratory exchange system, rather than a result of nutrient depletion as has previously been reported.