Benthic community structure and biomarker induction in grass shrimp in an estuarine system

The impact of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and lead contaminatio n on benthic community structure and grass shrimp (Palaeomonetes sp.) bioch emical markers were investigated in a bayou that has been heavily contamina ted by PAHs and heavy metals. The benthic community had decreased species r ichness as well as decreased numbers of individuals along a contamination g radient. Grass shrimp collected in the field showed a contaminant-gradient increase in heat shock protein 63 and cytochrome P450 1A (as measured by EC OD metabolism). Grass shrimp had elevated ECOD metabolism when exposed in t he laboratory to sediments from the most contaminated site. However, indivi dual variation was too great for statistically significant changes. In addi tion, heat shock protein levels were not significantly elevated in laborato ry exposed shrimp. Benthic community structure and wild-caught grass shrimp are clearly impacted in this bayou.