Biomarker responses and contamination levels in the clam Ruditapes philippinarum for biomonitoring the Lagoon of Venice (Italy)

A multibiomarker approach revealed consistent contamination levels across the Lagoon of Venice, though specific pollutant classes varied by site. The study used clams (Ruditapes philippinarum) from eight locations to assess exposure to neurotoxic and estrogenic compounds, as well as general stress conditions. Biomarkers such as haemocyte count, lysozyme activity, acetylcholinesterase, vitellogenin-like protein levels, and survival-in-air were analyzed alongside chemical measurements of PCBs, PAHs, DDT metabolites, HCB, and HCH. Palude del Monte emerged as a high-risk area for clam culture due to notable contamination. This integrated method proved effective for biomonitoring the lagoon's environmental health.

Matozzo, V., Binelli, A., Parolini, M., Locatello, L., & Marin, M. G. (2010). Biomarker responses and contamination levels in the clam Ruditapes philippinarum for biomonitoring the Lagoon of Venice (Italy). Journal of Environmental Monitoring, 12(3), 776. https://doi.org/10.1039/b920536e