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R/F-71
Effects of environmental contaminants on cell-mediated immune mechanisms of the oyster
Principal Investigator:
Robert S. AndersonStart/End Year:
1990 - 1991Institution:
Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, University of Maryland Center for Environmental ScienceTopic(s):
Description:
The production of cytotoxic oxygen metabolites by oyster blood cells will be quantified by state-of-the-art assays measuring biochemical events associated with hemocyte-mediated destruction of pathogens. Hemocytes from oysters exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of model pollutants will also be studied to identify immunotoxicological responses. Our data will define mechanisms of disease resistance, as well as unique biomarker assays for chemical stress.
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Featured Fellow
Leone Yisrael is a cephalopod-loving scuba diver, cook, and loves to try new activities. She conducts genetic analysis and fieldwork at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center through the Coastal Disease Ecology Lab.
Featured Research Project
Exploring the Use of Benthic Microbial Fuel Cells to Remove Sulfide While Harvesting Energy from Oyster Aquaculture Biodeposits
Oyster aquaculture is a rapidly growing industry in Maryland’s Chesapeake waters which stimulates economic activity and may provide a host of ecosystem benefits. A potential concern associated with the intensification of the oyster aquaculture is the local production and accumulation of oyster biodeposits, which can lead to a porewater sulfide accumulation and declining bioturbation, symptoms of declining ecosystem function. Sulfide is naturally removed from the seafloor by the interactions between bioturbating infauna and sulfide oxidizing bacteria.
Chesapeake Quarterly Magazine
A Growing Industry: Advancing Oyster Aquaculture in Maryland
