Sediment toxicity and deformities of chironomid larvae in Lake Piediluco (Central Italy).
Chemosphere
; 79(1): 33-9, 2010 Mar.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-20172586
ABSTRACT
The chemical analysis of the bottom sediments of the Lake Piediluco (Central Italy) has been carried out in order to individuate the potential correlation between the sediment toxicity and the high incidence of mouthpart deformities in chironomid larvae (biological indicators) found in this lake. The environmental contamination has been analyzed by determining the concentrations of the main heavy metals (lead, copper, cadmium, chromium, zinc and nickel), and the concentrations of organic compounds of anthropic source PAHs, NPPs and OCPs. Heavy metals concentrations have pointed out a non-elevated contamination grade for the Lake Piediluco. The highest level of metals has been detected in the western area that feels the effect of the continuous tributaries incoming load. Also, concerning PAHs, NPPs and OCPs the lake does not present high values of pollution. The highest concentrations of the organic toxicants has been observed in the eastern sector of the lake, which presents typical lentic characteristics. A clear relationship has not found between the toxic substances present in the lacustrine sediments and the deformities incidence for chironomid larvae, which represent an index of environmental alteration. Probably, the mouthpart deformities found in the chironomid larvae of Chironomus plumosus are affected by a synergic action due to the whole toxic mixture present in the sediments of the Lake Piediluco.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Water Pollutants, Chemical
/
Chironomidae
/
Geologic Sediments
/
Metals, Heavy
Limits:
Animals
Country/Region as subject:
Europa
Language:
En
Journal:
Chemosphere
Year:
2010
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Italy