Parasite populations and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Biota from the Sydney Tar Ponds, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada: Investigation of potential long-term biomonitors

Abstract

Historical industrialization around the Sydney Tar Ponds resulted in contaminated water and sediment. This study determined baseline levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in sediments and biota from the Tar Ponds and explored the use of a diversity of resident organisms as potential biomonitors of remediation. European green crab (Carcinus maenas) and grass shrimp (Palaemonetes spp.) were found to accumulate a greater number and concentration of PAHs than American eel (Anguilla rostrata) and mummichog (Fundulus heteroclitus). Of the biota sampled, Carcinus maenas are suggested to be the best biomonitor. The diminished parasite levels of F. heteroclitus , found in the Tar Ponds, are also an effective biomonitor. As remediation of the Tar Ponds proceeds, it is proposed that the levels of parasites will increase to a healthy level.