This study aimed to assess the effects of field metal contamination on sperm motility and RNA/DNA ratio in two populations of echinoderms; Asterias rubens and Echinus acutus. These species occur naturally along a contamination gradient of cadmium, copper, lead and zinc, in a Norwegian Fjord (Sørfjord). Sperm motility was quantified with the help of a computer assisted sperm analysis system (CASA). The RNA/DNA ratios were assessed based on a l-dye, (Ethidium bromide)/l-enzyme (RNase) 96-well microplate fluorometric assay. Although both species appeared to readily accumulate metals, neither sperm motility parameters in A. rubens nor RNA/DNA in the body wall of both species were affected. The RNA/DNA ratios in A. rubens pyloric caeca were significantly higher in the most contaminated station. Even thought this fjord is considered a highly contaminated place, these populations seem to tolerate these metal contamination levels. |
