Seasonal variation in imposex intensity of Thais clavigera |
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| Authors: | Li Zhengyan |
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| Institution: | (1) College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, 266003 Qingdao, China;(2) Swire Institute of Marine Science, Department of Ecology & Biodiversity, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong |
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| Abstract: | Imposex, specifically caused by TBT pollution, refers to the superimposition of male sexual characteristics in gastropod females.
Seasonal variation of imposex intensity inThais clavigera from both slightly and severely contaminated sites in Hong Kong waters was studied from 1988 to 1999. The male penis length
showed significant difference between both sites and seasons. It was shortest during late autumn and early winter (October
to December) and longest during spring and early summer (February to June). Female penis length also showed significant difference
between sites. It did not change seasonally, however. The RPS (Relative Penis Size) index was the highest during autumn and
early winter, and the lowest during spring and early summer. The VDS (Vas Deferens Sequence) index remained stable throughout
the sampling period. This study showed that VDS index is a better indicator when we compare relative intensity of imposex.
The comparison can only be meaningful provided the samples from different locations are taken during the same season.
Supported by the NSFC (40006007). |
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| Keywords: | imposex seasonal variation Thais clavigera TBT |
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