Condition of Coral Reef Cnidarians from the Northern Florida Reef Tract: Pesticides, Heavy Metals, and Histopathological Examination
Glynn PW, Szmant AM, Corcoran EF, Cofer-Shabica SV. 1989. Condition of Coral Reef Cnidarians from the Northern Florida Reef Tract: Pesticides, Heavy Metals, and Histopathological Examination. Research/Resources Management Report SER-89/03. National Park Service
Compared scleractinian corals and octocorals from two reefs in Biscayne National Park - one close to Miami, the other further south (where it receives less urban runoff and more agricultural runoff). Looked at abundance, condition, concentrations of pesticides and heavy metals and histopathological condition. "No consistent differences between the two coral reef communities were found; however, high frequencies of blemishes and abnormality (bite marks, unusual growth forms, bleached tissues), tissue, necrosis, and invading pathogens were evident at both sites. Additionally, high levels (to ppm) of organochlorine pesticides and heavy metals were detected in several of the reef coelenterates from both sites". The report includes tables of pesticide concentration data (for 9 pesticides) and heavy metal concentrations (As, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, Pb and Ca). Also includes a table of types and frequencies of histopathological abnormalities (necrosis, bacterial algal filaments, etc.). Author Abstract: Scleractinian corals and octocorals from two reefs within Biscayne National Park off southeast Florida were compared with respect to (a) relative abundances, (b) gross field condition, (c) concentrations of pesticides and heavy metals, and (d) histopathological condition. The northernmost reef, Bache Shoal, is near a large urban area (Miami) and potentially receives pollutants from this source. The southernmost reef, Control Reef, is less likely to be influenced by runoff from Miami, but may receive runoff from an important agricultural center (Homestead). No consistent differences between the two coral reef communities were found; however, high frequencies of gross abnormalities, tissue necrosis, and invading pathogens were evident at both sites. Additionally, high levels (to ppm) of organochlorine pesticides (lindane, heptachlor/heptachlor epoxide,~f.(chlordane, and DDT residues) and heavy metals (As, cu, Pb) were detected in several of the reef coelenterates from both sites.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Glynn, Peter; Szmant, Alina; Corcoran, Eugene; Cofer-Shabica, Stephen
- Date of Issue
- 1989-01-30
- Publisher
- National Park Service
- Units
- BISC
- Keywords
- Animal Studies, Distribution, Health, Heavy Metals, octocorals (Octocorallia), Pesticides, Reefs, stony corals (Scleractinia)