Emissários submarinos de esgotos como alternativa à minimização de riscos à saúde humana e ambiental / Ocean outfalls as an alternative to minimizing risks to human and environmental health

Resumo Emissários submarinos são apresentados como uma eficiente alternativa para o destino final de efluentes sanitários em regiões costeiras densamente povoadas em virtude da elevada capacidade de dispersão e depuração da matéria orgânica no ambiente marinho, e por demandar pequenas áreas para sua implementação. A probabilidade de condições improprias de balneabilidade, em áreas costeiras adjacentes aos emissários submarinos de esgotos de Ipanema, Barra da Tijuca e Icaraí, é avaliada com base em metodologia computacional probabilística que contempla em conjunto a modelagem hidrodinâmica, de transporte e decaimento bacteriano. Os resultados mostram que as concentrações de coliformes fecais são influenciadas fortemente pela radiação solar e todos os fatores responsáveis por sua mitigação no ambiente marinho. Os referidos emissários não comprometem a balneabilidade na região costeira, visto que as condições improprias de balneabilidade são restringidas às regiões adjacentes aos pontos de lançamento do efluente. A poluição observada nas praias é indicativa da contaminação que ocorre pelos sistemas lagunares, rios e canais ambientalmente degradados.

Abstract Submarine outfalls are proposed as an efficient alternative for the final destination of wastewater in densely populated coastal areas, due to the high dispersal capacity and the clearance of organic matter in the marine environment, and because they require small areas for implementation. This paper evaluates the probability of unsuitable bathing conditions in coastal areas nearby to the Ipanema, Barra da Tijuca and Icaraí outfalls based on a computational methodology gathering hydrodynamic, pollutant transport, and bacterial decay modelling. The results show a strong influence of solar radiation and all factors that mitigate its levels in the marine environment on coliform concentration. The aforementioned outfalls do not pollute the coastal areas, and unsuitable bathing conditions are restricted to nearby effluent launching points. The pollution observed at the beaches indicates that the contamination occurs due to the polluted estuarine systems, rivers and canals that flow to the coast.

Reproductive periods of Lucina pectinata (BIVALVE; LUCINIDAE) in the Paranaguá Estuarine Complex, Paraná - Brazil / Período reprodutivo de Lucina pectinata (BIVLAVE; LUCINIDAE) no Complexo Estuarino de Paranaguá, PR - Brasil

Abstract The objectives of the present study is to describe the size for exploitation and gonadal maturation of L. pectinata in Peças Island in Paraná coast. Twenty two individuals were sampled every month, from an intertidal flat of the Peças River, Municipality of Guaraqueçaba, during two periods – summer/autumn and winter of the 2009. Environmental parameter data was obtained at the same time of the biological sampling: temperature, salinity and seawater transparency at the Peças River mouth. The animals’ height, length, width, gross weight, wet weight of meat and dry weight of meat were measured at the lab. The gonad development stages (GDS), condition index (CI) and yield index (Y) were calculated. Sex identification was conducted by direct observation of the gonads and gametes under an optic microscope. Individuals were classified as males (M), females (F) or undetermined (U). The medium height observed was of 49.62 ± 6.84 mm. Period of more expressive gonad repletion were observed in summer when water temperature was higher. Results of GDS in both periods showed a predominance of partially filled gonad stages. This may be related with the fact that L. pectinata has intense gametogenesis activity, that is, the organisms do not have a resting interval, but go back to gonad restructuring rapidly after releasing the gametes. The continuity of the reproductive cycle of the specimens found in both studied periods could demonstrate a possible continuous reproduction of the species and a size for exploitation above 40.00 mm of height.

Resumo O presente estudo tem como objetivo descrever o tamanho de exploração e a maturação gonadal de L. pectinata na Ilha das Peças no litoral do Paraná. Vinte e dois indivíduos foram amostrados mensalmente na região entre-marés no Rio das Peças, Município de Guaraqueçaba, durante 2 períodos – verão/outono e inverno de 2009. Paralelamente às amostragens, foram obtidos dados dos parâmetros ambientais: temperatura, salinidade e transparência da água do mar na foz do Rio das Peças. A altura, comprimento, largura, peso bruto, peso úmido da carne e peso seco da carne dos animais foram medidos no laboratório. Foram calculados os estágios de desenvolvimento gonadal (EDG), índices de condição (IC) e de rendimento (R). A Identificação do sexo foi realizada por observação direta das gônadas e gametas sob microscópio óptico. Os indivíduos foram classificados como: machos (M), fêmeas (F) ou indeterminados (I). A altura média observada foi de 49,62 ± 6,84 mm. O período de maior repleção gonadal foi observado no verão, quando a temperatura da água foi mais elevada. Resultados dos EDG em ambos os períodos mostrou um predomínio de gônadas parcialmente cheias. Isso pode estar relacionado com o fato de que L. pectinata tem atividade gametogênese intensa, ou seja, os organismos não têm um intervalo de repouso, mas voltam a reestruturação das gônadas rapidamente após liberação dos gametas. A continuidade do ciclo reprodutivo dos espécimes encontrados em ambos os períodos estudados, pode demonstrar possível reprodução contínua da espécie e tamanho de exploração superior a 40,00 mm de altura.

[210]Po and [210]Pb concentration in environmental samples of the Adriatic Sea

This study reports the concentrations of important tracers of the marine environment, [210]Po and [210]Pb, in different matrices from field samples collected at Central Adriatic Sea [Italy], a non-contaminated marine ecosystem. [210]Po concentration appears to decrease with increasing distance from the coast and a significant difference in [210]Po concentrations in seawater samples at two different depths is not appreciable. [210]Po and [210]Pb present the same trend in the different periods of the year. [210]Po and [210]Pb present high concentration factors and high Kd values: in particular [210]Po shows values of 2.4 10[4] in plankton, 3.2 10[5] in the particulate fraction and 1.1 10[5] in sediment; [210]Pb shows values of 1.3 10[4] in plankton, 1.8 10[4] in the particulate fraction and 4.9 10[4] in sediment. The [210]Po/[210]Pb ratio results < 1 in sea water and >1 in the particulate fraction, sediment and plankton due to a significant fractionation occurring between the two radionuclides during their removal from solution to particle and due to their different biogeochemical cycling pathways in the marine environment. The noticeable accumulation of [210]Po in the food chain is not accompanied by an identical accumulation of [210]Pb. Due to its biomagnification in the marine food chain, [210]Po provides the larges radiation dose to any marine organism under natural conditions. The data reported provide reference values for the Central Adriatic [Mediterranean Sea] coastal environment

Medusas (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa) de una zona de afloramiento costero, Bahía Culebra, Pacífico, Costa Rica / Medusae (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa) from a coastal upwelling zone, Culebra Bay, Pacific, Costa Rica

The hydromedusae have an important role in marine trophic webs due to their predatory feeding habits. This is the first study of this group of gelatinous marine zooplankton in a coastal upwelling area of Central America. The composition and abundance variability of hydromedusae were studied during six months in 1999 at four stations in Culebra Bay, Gulf of Papagayo, Pacific coast of Costa Rica (10º37’ N-85º40’ W). A total of 53 species were identified, of which 26 are new records for Costa Rica, 21 are new records for Central America, and eight are new records for the Eastern Tropical Pacific. The more abundant species (more than 30% of the total abundance) were Liriope tetraphylla, Solmundella bitentaculata and Aglaura hemistoma. Six species occurred throughout the sampling period, 10 were present only during the dry season (December-April), and 17 were so during the rainy season (May-November). Significant differences of medusan abundances were found between seasons (dry vs. rainy). Maximum abundance (2.1±4.3ind./m³) was recorded when upwelled deeper water influenced the Bay, as indicated by local higher oxygen concentrations and lower water temperatures. The relatively high species richness of medusae found in Culebra Bay is probably related to factors like the pristine condition of the Bay, the arrival of oceanic species transported by the Equatorial Counter Current (ECC), the eastward shoaling of the Costa Rica Dome, and local currents. Illustrations of the 15 more important species are included to facilitate their identification and foster future work in the region.

Las hidromedusas tienen un papel importante en redes tróficas marinas debido a sus hábitos alimenticios depredadores. Este es el primer estudio de este grupo del zooplancton gelatinoso en un area de afloramiento costero en América Central. Durante seis meses de 1999, se estudió la abundancia de hidromedusas en cuatro estaciones en Bahía Culebra, Golfo de Papagayo, costa Pacífica de Costa Rica (10º 37’N-85º40’W). Se identificó un total de 53 especies de las que 26 son registros nuevos para Costa Rica, 21 son registros nuevos para América Central y 8 son nuevos registros para el Pacífico Oriental Tropical. Las especies más abundantes durante el estudio (con más de 30% de la abundancia total) fueron Liriope tetraphylla, Solmundella bitentaculata y Aglaura hemistoma. Seis especies se presentaron en todos los muestreos, 10 especies se presentaron únicamente durante la época seca y 17 se presentaron únicamente durante la época lluviosa. Se mostraron diferencias significativas entre las épocas lluviosa y seca. La máxima abundancia promedio de hidromedusas (2.1±4.3 ind./m³) fue encontrada durante las fechas que se espera el afloramiento costero, indicado por alta concentración de oxígeno y baja temperatura. La rica composición de especies encontrada en Bahía Culebra puede ser el resultado de varios factores, incluyendo la condición prístina de la bahía, el transporte de especies por la Contra Corriente Nor-Ecuatorial (NECC) y los aportes de origen terrestre. Se incluyen ilustraciones de las 15 especies más importantes para facilitar su identificación y promover estudios futuros en la región.

Estudio histológico del tracto digestivo del neón cardenal paracheirodon axelrodi (Characidae) / Histological study of digestive tract of the neón cardenal paracheirodon axelrodi (Characidae)

Paracheirodon axelrodi es el pez ornamental que más se exporta en Colombia. Sin embargo, se desconocen varios aspectos de su biología básica. Se estudió la histología del tracto digestivo. Se sacrificaron 15 ejemplares (MS 222, 0,5 g/L), fijados en formaldehído al 4 por ciento y decalcificados con ácido nítrico 7 por ciento. Se siguió el procedimiento para H&E. El tracto digestivo de P. axelrodi presentó cuatro capas constitutivas: mucosa, submucosa, muscular y serosa. La mucosa de la boca presentó un epitelio escamoso estratificado no queratinizado con células caliciformes y sin botones gustativos, una submucosa de tejido conectivo laxo y una capa de músculo estriado esquelético. Los dientes son cónicos y abundantes. La capa serosa a lo largo del tracto digestivo es delgada compuesta de tejido conectivo laxo. La capa mucosa, submucosa y muscular del esófago posee la misma conformación tisular de la boca, sin embargo, la capa muscular presenta dos orientaciones. La mucosa del estómago está compuesta por epitelio cilíndrico simple con glándulas gástricas, submucosa de tejido conectivo laxo y una capa de músculo liso en dos orientaciones. Las capas del intestino exhi-bieron una composición tisular similar a la del estómago, sin glándulas gástricas. La mucosa presentó células caliciformes especialmente hacia la región posterior y un aumento en la longitud de los pliegues intestinales. La conformación tisular y morfológica del tracto digestivo de P. axelrodi lo ubica como un pez de hábitos alimenticios carnívoros pero de pequeñas presas.

Cardinal neon, Paracheirodon axelrodi is the most exported ornamental fish in Colombia. However, many aspects of its biology are unknown. A histological study of the digestive tract was carried out and 15 specimens were sacrificed with MS 222, 0.5 g/L, fixed in 4 percent formaldehyde and decalcified with 7 percent nitric acid. H&E technique was followed. P. axelrodi digestive tract showed four constitutive layers: mucosae, submucosae, muscular, and serosa. Mouth mucosae presents a stratified nonkeratinized squamous epithelium with many goblet cells, and no taste buds, submucosae with areolar connective tissue, and skeletal muscular layer. Teeth were conical and abundant. Along the whole intestinal tract the serous was a very thin connective tissue layer. Esophagus mucosae, submucosae, and muscular layer were similar to those of the mouth. However, muscular layer presented two layers in different orientations. Stomach mucosae were made of simple cylindrical epithelium with gastric glands. Submucosa did present areolar connective tissue, and muscular layer exhibited smooth muscle in two different orientations. The intestinal layers were similar to those of the stomach, but without gastric glands. Mucosae presented goblet cells especially at the posterior region. Intestinal folds were also observed. Tisular and morphological structure of P. axelrodi digestive tract suggests a small prey carnivorous fish.

Guía técnica: procedimiento de toma de muestra del agua de mar en playas de baño y recreación. R.M. Nº 553-2010/MINSA / Technical guidance: procedures for sampling of seawater at bathing beaches and recreation. R.M. No. 553-2010/MINSA

En el presente documento se indica los materiales y equipos que deben emplearse en el proceso de la toma de muestra y las condiciones de transporte de la misma para que llegue al laboratorio sin ninguna alteración para su respectivo análisis microbiológico, donde se determina la densidad de coliformes fecales

Sewage pollution in the coastal waters of Mombasa city, Kenya: a norm rather than an exception

This study investigated the effects of sewage discharge on nutrient concentrations and BOD[5] levels in the coastal waters and sediments of the City of Mombasa. The results indicated that nutrient concentrations in Tudor, Mtwapa and Makupa Creeks were elevated as compared to concentrations in Gazi Creek [mean ranges of 0.022-0.039mg/L, 0.03 8-0.163mg/L and 0.034-0.118mg/Lphosphates, nitrates and ammonium respectively]. Sediments were found to harbour relatively higher concentrations of nutrients than water compartment [mean ranges of 0.217-1.13 Img/L, 0.199-0.603mg/L and 9.394-26.73mg/L for phosphates, nitrates and ammonium respectively] thus serving as a reservoir and potential source if sediments are re-suspended during heavy storms or dredging. Based on Chl-a levels, Makupa Creek could be classified as eutrophic whereas Mtwapa and Tudor Creeks could be placed at the upper limit of higher mesotrophy while Gazi Creek could be considered as an oligotrophic system. Of the three impacted Creeks, Tudor was found to be the most polluted

Distribución espacio-temporal de variables fisicoquímicas y biológicas en el hábitat del tiburón ballena Rhincodon typus (Orectolobiformes: Rhincodontidae) al norte del Caribe Mexicano

Spatial and temporal distribution of physicochemical features in the habitat of whale shark Rhincodon typus (Orectolobiformes: Rhincodontidae) in the north of Mexican Caribbean. Large groups of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are common in the North Mexican Caribbean and gather between May and September each year. We describe their spatial and temporal distribution, and the physicochemical (temperature, dissolved oxygen, light extinction coefficient and salinity) and biological conditions during the presence and absence seasons of R. typus. A total of 26 sampling stations were monitored to record whale shark sightings and physicochemical variables during 10 field campaigns from April 2005 to March 2006. At each station, zooplankton and water samples, for chlorophyll-a and nutrients determination, were collected. Physicochemical conditions were significantly different between presence-absence seasons (ANOSIM, Rglobal = 0.632). The R. typus season was characterized by low salinity values, and higher temperature, chlorophyll-a, dissolved oxygen and inorganic nitrogen concentrations values. Average zooplankton biomass was lower during the absence season, while recorded the maximum values during the presence one. Furthermore, these values were also observed in areas with higher species abundances, supporting the hypothesis that the site is used by R. typus primarily as a foraging area. We conclude that physicochemical conditions of the study area promote the biological productivity, which explains the spatial and temporal variability of R. typus. Rev. Biol. Trop. 58 (1): 399-412. Epub 2010 March 01.

En la zona marina ubicada al norte del Caribe Mexicano se congregan grandes grupos de tiburón ballena (Rhincodon typus) entre mayo y septiembre de cada año. Se describe la variación espacio-temporal de la distribución del tiburón ballena al norte del Caribe mexicano y las condiciones fisicoquímicas y biológicas que prevalecen en la zona durante la temporada de presencia y ausencia de R. typus. De abril de 2005 a marzo de 2006, 26 estaciones de muestreo fueron monitoreadas registrando avistamientos de tiburón ballena y variables fisicoquímicas (temperatura, oxígeno disuelto, coeficiente de extinción de luz y salinidad) en 10 salidas de campo. En cada estación fueron recolectadas muestras zooplancton y de agua para determinación de clorofila-a y nutrientes. Las condiciones fisicoquímicas fueron significativamente diferentes entre temporadas (ANOSIM, Rglobal=0.632). La temporada de presencia de R. typus estuvo caracterizada por valores bajos de salinidad, mayores valores de temperatura y oxígeno disuelto; mayores de nitrógeno inorgánico disuelto y concentraciones de clorofila-a y aunque la biomasa promedio de zooplancton fue menor que en la temporada de ausencia de R. typus, los valores máximos de biomasa zooplanctónica se registraron en el periodo de presencia y en sitios donde se registraron las mayores abundancias de la especie, apoyando la hipótesis de que el sitio es utilizado por la especie principalmente como zona de alimentación. Las condiciones fisicoquímicas de la zona de estudio que favorecen la productividad biológica explican la variabilidad espacial y temporal de R. typus al norte del Caribe Mexicano.

Avaliação sanitária das águas e areias de praias da Baixada Santista, São Paulo / Sanitary assessment of waters and sand of beaches at Baixada Santista, São Paulo

O Brasil possui em sua área costeira grandes metrópoles onde diversas atividades humanas são desenvolvidas, podendo trazer prejuízos à qualidade das águas costeiras. O litoral de São Paulo, constituído por 16 municípios incluindo-se Cubatão, apresenta peculiaridades diferenciadas. O tipo de poluição mais encontrado na costa paulista é a poluição fecal causada por despejo de esgotos domésticos, os quais transportam organismos patogênicos cuja presença pode levar a agravos à saúde humana. O objetivo deste estudo é o de avaliar a qualidade sanitária de águas e areias de praias da Baixada Santista. Assim amostras de água e areia (úmida e seca) de três praias, como Gonzaguinha (São Vicente), Boqueirão (Santos) e Pitangueiras (Guarujá) foram coletadas com frequência mensal pelo período de um ano nas quais foram analisados os seguintes parâmetros: coliformes termotolerantes, Escherichia coli, enterococos, e ainda Staphylococcus coagulase (+), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans e dermatófitos. Para a realização das análises em amostras de água utilizou-se da Técnica da Membrana Filtrante e para as amostras de areia a Técnica de Tubos Múltiplos, de acordo com Normas Técnicas CETESB e Standard Methods. Para a determinação de dermatófitos, as amostras de água foram concentradas pela Técnica de Membrana Filtrante e as amostras de areia (seca e úmida) foram analisadas pela Técnica de inoculação em superfície e, concomitantemente, pela Técnica da Isca de Cabelo. Os resultados obtidos revelaram que 95 por cento das amostras analisadas foram positivas para a presença dos indicadores de contaminação fecal, seguidos por P. aeruginosa, presente em 75 por cento das amostras. C. albicans foi o microrganismo menos frequente (6,7 por cento) e foi detectada somente nas amostras de água. O dermatófito Microsporum sp foi detectado somente nas amostras de areia e esteve presente nas três praias...

Brazilian seashore comprises many big cities and the diverse activities which are performed in these areas can bring damages to seashore water quality. São Paulo State seashore comprises 16 cities including Cubatão, where each one shows their own particularities. In the São Paulo State seashore is mostly observed fecal pollution due to launching sewage into these waters which transport pathogens with potential to cause diseases. The objective of this study is to assess the sanitary quality of recreational waters and wet and dry sand from three beaches located at Baixada Santista such as Gonzaguinha (São Vicente), Boqueirão (Santos) and Pitangueiras (Guarujá). The samples (water, wet and dry sand) were collected with monthly frequency throughout a year and the following parameters were analyzed: thermotolerant coliforms, Escherichia coli, enterococos, Staphylococcus coagulase +, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans and dermatophytes. The bacteriological and C. albicans analyzes were performed according to CETESB and Standard Methods 21st edition. Dermatophyte analysis from water samples were carried out by membrane filtering technique and by spread plate technique and hair-baiting technique for sand samples. The results revealed that 95 per cent of the water samples were positive for fecal indicators following by P. aeruginosa (75 per cent). C. albicans was detected only in water samples showing 6.7 per cent of the observed frequency. Microsporum sp specie was detected only in sand samples in all beaches studied...

Distribution of different metals in coastal waters of Alexandria, Egypt

Seasonal variation of some heavy metals [Fe, MN, Cu, Cd, Pb, Co, Ni, Cr, Sn and Al] are estimated at surface and bottom waters from 10 stations at near-shore, Alexandria coast during 2004. Salinity [16.20-39.10] and pH values [alkaline side] were also measured. The concentrations of heavy metals are at high levels in regions receiving different effluents from wastes of El-Mex region. A comparative study between the different stations was carried out to evaluate the effect of sewage, agricultural and industrial wastes discharged into some regions of Alexandria coast. Different statistical treatments were carried out to calculate the correlation coefficients between metals and the annual average variation

baseline study of residual petroleum hydrocarbons in the ports of Yemen

This investigation involves the utilization of spectrofluorimetric determination to establish the petroleum residues in water samples, during 22-30 November 2006, from the Yemeni ports. Gas chromatographic analyses were conducted to characterize the extracted hydrocarbons. The result confirmed the level reported previously for the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea and the Red Sea. Concentration of petroleum residues, in solution through the Yemeni ports water column, were found to vary from 7,728-14.868 microg L[1-] with a mean concentration of Yemeni ports 12.926 microg L[1-] [Marib crude oil equivalents], from 0.02-0.10 [TOC%] with a mean concentration 0.055 [TOC%] in the Yemeni ports. Regional variations are attributed to different sources of oil pollution, as well as to the in-homogenous nature of oil-water mixture. The importance of these data can be comprehended by the fact that they establish for the first time background and patterns of Residual Petroleum Hydrocarbons and Total Organic Carbon in Yemeni ports. These data are the first of their kind for the region

Impact of groundwater discharges on marine water quality in Doha, Qatar

Qatar is classified, according to its geographical location and climate, as a hot subtropical desert. Qatar's average annual rainfall is less than 130 mm/year [5 in]. Doha, the capital of State of Qatar, is served by a collection system of groundwater and storm water which finally is disposed off into the marine water through three outfalls. In the future, another four proposed outfalls will be operating. This study aimed at assessing the impact of groundwater discharge on the receiving marine water quality. Water Samples were collected from the outfalls it themselves, Sea water from different sites around these outfalls at different distances, sea water Samples from different sites around the proposed points at different distances, and offshore samples Es reference. Samples were collected during year 2007 and were analyzed physicochemically and microbiologically. Physicochemical characterization of the discharges showed that all measured parameters were complied with the environmental limits of both Qatar and GCC laws except turbidity and total suspended solids. The values of total and fecal coliform were higher than the permissible limits for Qatar and GCC environmental laws. The Physico-chemical characterization of the sea water samples collected from different sites around the discharged points recorded higher total suspended solids than the permissible limits stated by the Qatari law while the other parameters were complying with the law. Total suspended solids were higher than the permissible limits in all marine water samples while samples around the discharges points were the highest. The excees of some parameters reported by the study is due to the state urbanization and constructions activities in general. An integrated management plan must be carried out by all governmental and non-governmental authorities to protect the groundwater and avoid the deterioration of marine water quality

Dial organic carbon fluctuations in a mangrove tidal creek in Sepetiba bay, Southeast Brazil

The carbon (C) concentration and flux, as dissolved organic carbon (DOC), particulate organic carbon (POC) and macrodetritus (MD), were quantified through 4 tidal cycles in a mangrove tidal creek in Southeastern Brazil. DOC was the major fraction of the total C concentration, accounting for 68 and 61 percent of the total C concentration during ebb and flood periods respectively. Concentrations of DOC (Ebb = 3,41 ± 0,57 mgC.L-1 and Flood = 3,55 ± 0,76 mgC.L-1) and POC (Ebb = 1,73 ± 0,99 mgC.L-1 and Flood = 1,28 ± 0,45 mgC.L-1) were relatively similar during the four tidal cycles. Macrodetritus presented a wide variation with concentration peaks probably related to external forces, such as winds, which enrich the ebb flow with leaf litter. DOC and POC fluxes depended primarily on tidal and net water fluxes, whereas MD fluxes were not. The magnitude of the DOC and POC fluxes varied with the area flooded at high tide, but not the MD fluxes. DOC was the major form of carbon export to Sepetiba Bay. During the four tidal cycles, the forest exported a total of 1,2 kg of organic carbon per ha, mostly as DOC (60 percent), followed by POC (22 percent) and MD (18 percent).

As concentrações e fluxos de carbono orgânico sob forma de carbono orgânico dissolvido (COD), carbono orgânico particulado (COP) e macrodetritos (MD) foram quantificadas durante 4 ciclos de maré em canal de maré na Floresta Experimental de Itacuruçá, Baía de Sepetiba, RJ, litoral sudeste do Brasil. COD foi a fração mais importante para a concentração total de carbono orgânico, contribuindo com 68 e 61 por cento da concentração total de C nos períodos de maré vazante e enchente, respectivamente. As concentrações de COD (vazante = 3.41 ± 0.57 mgC.L-1 e enchente = 3.55 ± 0.76 mgC.L-1) e COP (vazante = 1.73 ± 0.99 mgC.L-1 e enchente = 1.28 ± 0.45 mgC.L-1) foram similares durante os 4 ciclos de maré. A fração macrodetritos apresentou uma ampla variabilidade com máximos de concentração relacionados a fatores externos como ventos, que enriqueceram as águas de vazante com macrodetritos. A magnitude dos fluxos de COD e COP, mas não os de macrodetritos, relacionaram-se com os fluxos de água e a conseqüente área inundada pela maré. A fração COD foi a mais importante forma de exportação de carbono orgânico pelo manguezal. Durante os 4 ciclos monitorados, a floresta exportou um total de 1.2 kg de carbono orgânico, 60 por cento sob forma de COD, seguido pelo COP (22 por cento) e pela fração macrodetritos (18 por cento).

Heavy metal accumulation in certain marine animals along the East Coast of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Heavy metals disposed through anthropogenic activities find their way into the oceans and seas through the rivers or through direct fall out from factory effluents. These heavy metals resuspend back into the water column along with the sediments and are known to affect the marine animals. Marine animals like fish, prawn, crab and mussel were collected along the East Coast (off Pulicat lake to Chennai Harbour) to evaluate trace metal concentrations in various tissues. The above specimens accumulated heavy metals such as Zn, Pb, Cu, Co, Cr, Ni and Cd. Fish, prawn, crab and mussel revealed higher concentration of heavy metals such as Zn, Pb, Cr Co, Cu and Ni and Cd in low levels. The results revealed that the heavy metal concentrations in the marine animals are below the threshold levels associated with the toxicological effects and the regulatory limits. The bioconcentration factors revealed that the animals have accumulated heavy metals along the food chain rather than from the water column and sediment.

Use of the histopathology in the differential diagnosis of drowning in fresh and salty water: an experimental model establishment in rats

OBJETIVO: Desenvolver um método de diagnóstico diferencial de afogamento, pela análise quantitativa dos macrófagos alveolares, em ratos submetidos à afogamento induzido em água doce e água salgada. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 15 ratos adultos, machos Wistar EPM-1, pesando 360g (DP=21,3), randomizados em três grupos: G1 – controle; G2 – Água doce; G3 – Água salgada, cada um com n=5. Os animais foram anestesiados e traqueostomizados para inserção de uma cânula endotraqueal, para indução do afogamento. Os pulmões foram removidos, pesados, preparados para histologia e corados por imunohistoquímica. Os macrófagos foram contados em ambos os pulmões (direito e esquerdo) de cada animal. O teste estatístico utilizado foi o ANOVA (SPSS.10) com p<0,05.

Flora béntica y reproducción de las algas Batophora spp. (Chlorophyta: Dasycladaceae) de una laguna costera contaminada (Bahía de Chetumal, México) / Benthic flora and reproduction of Batophora spp. algae (Chlorophyta: Dasycladaceae) in a polluted coastal lagoon (Chetumal Bay, Mexico)

The benthic flora, and the vegetative and reproductive characters of the algae Batophora oerstedii and B. occidentalis (Chlorophyta) were recorded from five sites of Chetumal Bay, Quintana Roo, Mexico. A sewage gradient has been reported along those sites. Plants were sampled in May and October 1999, which corresponded to dry and rainy seasons, respectively. Forty taxa were found, 11 are new records for the Chetumal Bay, and 6 are new records for the Mexican Caribbean. Enteromorpha species were present in sites known as rich in organic matter (both from anthropogenic and natural sources). Batophora spp. is the dominant algae in all Chetumal Bay. However, it was absent next to sewage outfalls. The morphological characters of B. oerstedii and B. occidentalis did not change significantly along the sites reported as polluted. The length and width of gametophores, as well as the diameter of the gametangia were clearly different for both species. Different reproductive strategies may help B. oerstedii and B. occidentalis to closely coexist in the Chetumal Bay.

Los componentes de la flora béntica, y mediciones de partes vegetativas y reproductivas de Batophora oerstedii y B. occidentalis (Chlorophyta) se registraron en cinco sitios de la costa Oeste de la Bahía de Chetumal, donde se ha registrado la existencia de un gradiente de contaminación orgánica. La colecta de flora se realizó en mayo y Octubre de 1999, meses incluidos en las épocas climáticas e secas y lluvias, respectivamente. Se registraron 40 taxa de vegetación béntica, de los cuales 11 representan nuevos registros para la Bahía de Chetumal, y 6 para el Caribe Mexicano. Especies de Enteromorpha estuvieron presentes en ambientes ricos en materia orgánica, tanto de origen urbano, como natural. En los desagües de la Bahía de Chetumal existen especies indicadoras de contaminación, pero la ausencia de Batophora spp., dominante en esta laguna costera. Los caracteres morfológicos de B. occidentalis y B. oerstedii a lo largo de los cinco sitios de muestreo no reflejaron la presencia de contaminantes. Ambas especies presentaron diferencias significativas en su largo y ancho de gametóforos, y en el diámetro de gametangios Las diferencias en estrategias reproductivas probablemente ayudan a que B. oerstedii y B. occidentalis puedan coexistir cercanamente en la Bahía de Chetumal.

Temporal variation of biomass and productivity of Thalassia testudinum (Hydrocharitaceae) in Venezuela, Southern Caribbean

Annual biomass and productivity of Thalassia testudinum were determined during a year at a seagrass bed located in the Parque Nacional Morrocoy, Venezuela. Leaf, rhizome and root biomass were determined monthly, together with short-shoot density, from February 1992 to January 1993, from nine replicated core samples. Productivity was measured using the methodology by Zieman (1974) with minor modifications, and leaf turnover rate was calculated. Leaf biomass values ranged between 101.73 dry g m(-2) in February and 178.11 dry g m(-2) in August. Productivity ranged from 1.69 dry g m(-2) d(-1) in April and October to 3.30 dry g m(-2) d(-1) in July, showing two annual peaks: one in July and one in March. The leaf turnover rate showed the highest value in June (2.41% d(-1)) and the lowest in May (1.23% d(-1)). Sampling time differences in leaf biomass, productivity and turnover rate were statistically significant. Short-shoot density values varied between 811.10 shoots m(-2) in April and 1226.08 shoots m(-2) in December, but the differences were not significant along the year. These results indicated seasonal trends for leaf biomass, productivity and turnover rate of T. testudinum in the Southern Caribbean (latitude 10 degrees N).

Durante un año se determinaron mensualmente la productividad foliar, la densidad de tallos cortos y la biomasa de hojas, tallos cortos, rizomas y raíces de Thalassia testudinum, en una “pradera” localizada en el Parque Nacional Morrocoy, Venezuela. Los valores de biomasa foliar estuvieron entre 101.73 g/m2 en febrero y 178.11 g/m2 en agosto, los de productividad foliar se ubicaron entre 1.69 g/m2/d en abril y octubre y 3.30 g/m2/d en julio, mostrando dos picos anuales, uno en julio y otro en marzo. La tasa de recambio foliar mostró el mayor valor en junio (2.41%/d) y el menor en mayo (1.23%/d). Tales diferencias fueron estadísticamente significativas durante el año para todas estas variables. La densidad de tallos cortos fluctuó entre 811.10 tallos/m2 en abril y 1 226.08 tallos/m2 en diciembre, pero las diferencias no fueron significativas a lo largo del año. Estos resultados indicaron una tendencia estacional para la biomasa foliar, la productividad foliar y la tasa de recambio de las hojas de T. testudinum en el Caribe Sur, a 10º N de latitud.

Cianobacterias y riesgos potenciales de toxicidad en aguas continentales de Chile / Cyanobacteria and potential risks of toxicity in continental waters of Chile

Las cianobacterias son microorganismos fototróficos oxigénicos, con una amplia distribución, ya que han sido reportados en aguas dulces o saladas de los cinco continentes. Eventualmente pueden desarrollarse en grandes masas, denominadas ®blooms (florecimientos), generados, usualmente, por efectos antropogénicos. Varias especies de cianobacterias pueden producir potentes neurotoxinas y hepatotoxinas, las cuales presentan serias dificultades para ser eliminadas del agua. La intoxicación con algunas de estas toxinas puede ser grave causando la muerte de animales o el hombre y se sospecha que la ingestión aún de microdosis, pueda inducir la formación de tumores. La distribución de cianobacterias de aguas continentales de Chile, se presenta desde el extremo Norte hasta el territorio Antártico. Se ha determinado en diferentes regiones la presencia de especies tóxicas y la formación de florecimientos. Mediante cromatografía líquida de alta presión (HPLC) y espectrometría de masas (MALDITOF) (PSD), se ha determinado en diferentes cuerpos de agua la cianotoxina microcistina. Finalmente se sugieren recomendaciones para tomar conocimiento y establecer controles que eviten el riesgo a su exposición.

Cyanobacteria are phototropic and oxygenic microorganisms that are widely distributed and reported to be present in freshwater or seawater from the five continents. They can eventually develop into large masses called ®blooms¼ which are usually generated by anthropogenic effects. Several species of cyanobacteriacan produce potent neurotoxins and hepatotoxins, which are difficult to eliminate from water. The intoxicationwith some of these toxins can become severe causing death in animals and man and it is suspected that ingestion of even microdoses of them can induce tumor appearance. The distribution of cyanobacteria in continental waters of Chile has been recorded from uppermost north of Chile up to the Antarctic territory. The presence of toxic species as well as the development of blooms have been detected in different regions.The mycrocystin cyanotoxin has been assessed in different masses of water by means of high pressure liquidchromatography (HPLC) together with mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) (PSD). Finally it is recommended to make analysis in order to establish controls that avoid risk of exposure to these cyanotoxins.

Impact of refined petroleum spills on water quality, macro-invertebrate and microbial communities of a tropical aquatic environment.

Water quality characteristics, benthic macro-invertebrates and microbial communities of three first order streams in South West Nigeria were investigated to assess the effects of refined petroleum five months after spillage. All physical and chemical conditions except temperature and pH were significantly different (P<0.01) at the upstream control stations and impacted stations reflecting the perturbational stress. The benthic macro-invertebrate fauna were dominated by arthropods, but the faunal spectrum was dissimilar at all the stations studied. Sampling stations at the epicentre of the spill showed considerable reduction in faunal compositions and relative abundance. Generally, the microbial density and diversity were highest in both soil and water samples from impacted sites than in control sites. There was a significantly higher proportion (P < 0.05) of hydrocarbon utilizers in soil than in water samples in all stations except in samples from stations (P<0.05).