Effects of Salinity and Selected Petroleum Hydrocarbons on the Osmotic and Chloride Regulation of the American Oyster, Crassostrea virginica

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Abstract
Measurements of osmotic and Cl- concentration of the pericardial fluid from C. virginica showed that the fluid conformed to the ambient medium throughout the nonlethal range of salinities studied. The pericardial fluid remained slightly hyperosmotic to the environment over the salinity range. Oysters moved to salinities below 6 ppt [parts per trillion] died before reaching osmotic equilibrium. Those animals transferred to salinities between 6-10 ppt reached a new steady state of fluid concentration at a slower rate than those moved to higher salinities. Analyses of Cl- concentrations after transfer demonstrated a similar pattern of delayed conformity, the resulting concentrations being slightly lower than the media. Oysters exposed to number 2 fuel oil did not adjust at the same time rate as controls, while oysters exposed to South Louisiana [USA] crude responded to salinity changes much like controls. Effects of short-term oil exposure on osmoregulation and Cl- regulation were noted, but effects were reversible.

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