A case study of PAH contamination using blue mussels as a bioindicator in a small Greenlandic fishing harbor. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Poulsen, Rikke; Gravert, Thorsten Klaus Otto; Tartara, Arianna; Bensen, Henriette Kornmaaler; Gunnarsen, Klara Cecilia; Dicová, Kristína; Nielsen, Nikoline Juul; Christensen, Jan Henning
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 171(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Arctic environmental pollution -- Local pollution -- PAHs -- Bioindicators -- Mytilus sp. -- Greenland; Marine pollution -- Periodicals; Marine Biology -- Periodicals; Water Pollution -- Periodicals; Mer -- Pollution -- Périodiques; Publications périodiques; Pollution des mers; Lutte antipollution; Electronic journals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112688
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: This study investigated the impact of local anthropogenic activity on the marine environment around the remote harbor of Qeqertarsuaq, West Greenland. Blue mussels ( Mytilus sp.) were used as a bioindicator, and their physiological condition was found to decrease with increasing proximity to the harbor. Subsequently, the distribution of 19 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and 9 groups of alkylated PAHs were measured in mussel and sediment samples. The highest values were found in a rocky collection area 15 m from a wooden pier frequented by small boats. A PAH source investigation, indicated a mixed source from light fuel oils and creosote used as boat coating. Finally, correlations between the mussels morphological condition and the PAH pollution were found to be significant for 4-, 5-, and 6-ring PAHs. In conclusion, the results indicate that pollution sources in harbors have significant effects on the local environment and should be considered in arctic conservation research. Graphical abstract: Unlabelled Image Highlights: PAH were detected in mussel tissue and sediment in a small Greenlandic harbor. Local PAH contamination correlated negatively with blue mussel health. PAH source investigation indicated mixed pollution from creosote and light fuel oils.