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Interspecific comparisons of relative assimilation efficiencies for zinc and cadmium in an ecological series of talitrid amphipods (Crustacea)

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Abstract

A dual-labelling radioisotope technique has enabled the relative assimilation efficiencies of an essential (Zn) and a non-essential trace metal (Cd) to be determined in an ecological series of talitrid amphipods from low-shore to fully terrestrial habitats. All species exhibited high assimilation efficiencies for zinc and cadmium (within the range 66.7–96.4%). Interspecific differences in assimilation rates showed no trend with increasing terrestriality of the habitat. Elevated dietary zinc concentrations failed to enhance zinc assimilation efficiency. Incorporation of antibiotics into the diet to eliminate gut microflora did not affect zinc assimilation efficiencies. The implications of having high trace-metal assimilation efficiencies are discussed in terms of land invasion by talitrids.

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Author notes

  1. Jason M. Weeks

    Present address: Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Monks Wood, Abbots Ripton, PE17 2LS, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, UK

Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Biological Sciences, Queen Mary & Westfield College, University of London, Mile End Road, E1 4NS, London, UK

    Jason M. Weeks & Philip S. Rainbow

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  1. Jason M. Weeks
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  2. Philip S. Rainbow
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Weeks, J.M., Rainbow, P.S. Interspecific comparisons of relative assimilation efficiencies for zinc and cadmium in an ecological series of talitrid amphipods (Crustacea). Oecologia 97, 228–235 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00323154

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00323154

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