A study on the relationship between gill lead concentration, morpho-anatomy and gill histopathology alterations of Portunus pelagicus from Manila Bay, Philippines

Abstract

This study evaluated the relationship of morpho-anatomy and gill histopathology to the lead concentration in the gills of Portunus pelagicus collected from Bulungan Market, Manila Bay. All gill samples were acid digested and read spectrophotometrically for lead concentrations. Morphometric parameters were analyzed by measuring certain dimensions of the chelipeds, propodus and abdominal segments. The values of P. pelagicus condition factor were also determined. Gill histopathology alterations were evaluated thru scoring of the gill alterations using the calculated Histopathologic Alteration Index (HAI). The lead concentration in the gills of P. pelagicus was related to the HAI and the morpho-anatomy of the crab. Results showed a significant positive correlation of the gill lead concentration and the morphological parameters. However, a non-significant correlation exists between the gill lead concentration and the Histopathologic Alteration Index (HAI). The HAI calculated of the examined crabs showed normal functioning gills suggesting that the crabs were able to make adjustments and adaptations to their environment.