THE BIOTRANSFORMATION OF MONOMETHYLARSONATE AND DIMETHYLARSINATE INTO ARSENOBETAINE IN SEAWATER AND MUSSELS

Water-soluble H-3-labeled arsenic compounds were phenol-extracted from mussels (Mytilus edulis) and seawater after exposure to [H-3]monomethylarsonate (MMAA) and [H-3]dimethylarsinate (DMAA). Varying amounts of [H-3] arsenobetaine were found in mussels and seawater, depending upon the experimental conditions. The results indicate that arsenobetaine is principally biosynthesized by microscopic organisms in the seawater and that it is bioaccumulated by mussels. Total arsenic concentrations in mussel flesh, byssal threads and shells were also determined, showing concentration increases in all three compartments.