EFFECTS OF POLYNUCLEAR AROMATIC-HYDROCARBONS ON FISHES AND SHELLFISH - AN OVERVIEW OF RESEARCH IN VIRGINIA

This paper discusses the following topics related to polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbon pollution in estuaries: (1) the use of oysters (Crassostrea virginica), hard clams (Mercenaria mercenaria) and brackish water clams (Rangia cuneata) in residue monitoring; (2) the effects of elevated PAH residues on oyster condition; (3) three years of field studies relating PAH sediment contamination to abnormalities in fishes; and (4) laboratory bioassays for effects and bioconcentration modeling. Laboratory studies utilizing contaminated sediments have reproduced some of the abnormalities observed in the field. Bioconcentration of PAHs from sediments has been studied with oysters and hard clams. Study results are discussed.