Abstract:
Pakistan has the coastline of 990 km, rapid industrialization and economic growth has resulted in increased water pollution in the coastal areas. Present study characterized essential and toxic elements in the shells of molluscs and crustaceans found along the coastline of Pakistan. The washed up shell were collected from 09 locations and were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The mass percentages of elements were compared by one-way ANOVA, among species. Results determined that certain species are more sensitive to certain elements than others, although sharing same environment. For example, mussels showed higher levels of aluminum, than rest of species. Study suggested that these shells can also be used as bio-indicator for toxic elements, such as Pb and Cd. Silicon and aluminum showed similar trend in mass percentage i.e., Mussel>Crab>Scallop>Clam>Shrimp. Variation in levels of elements in natural shell composition may influence the attachment of toxic metals. While, this study also reflected shells that could be used as a nutrient source. Water pH was found to be an influencing factor on the solubility of elements. The morphological analysis of shells helped in understanding the transport of organic and inorganic materials between the body and shell.
Page(s):
122-122
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Abstract Book on International Conference on Food and Applied Sciences (ICFAS-23) 3-5 August 23, Volume: 0, Issue: 0, Year: 2023
Keywords:
ANOVA
,
Pakistan
,
crustacean
,
Shells
,
Mollusc