Abstract
Temporal variations in copper, iron and zinc levels in the periwinkle, Littorina littorea, were investigated to determine whether levels were affected by the sex of the organisms and/or by the presence of two species of trematode parasite. Significant monthly changes in concentrations of all these metals were found, with levels varying according to periwinkle sex and parasite infection. Periwinkles infected by either Cryptocotyle lingua or Renicola roscovita had reduced copper and iron concentrations compared to same-sex uninfected periwinkles, although infected periwinkles generally contained higher concentrations of zinc. Periwinkles infected by the more invasive C. lingua rediae had lower copper concentrations than those infected by R. roscovita sporocysts. These results clearly indicate that in areas of high parasite prevalence L. littorea is not an ideal metal-biomonitor.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
