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Size-dependence of mercury (II) accumulation kinetics in the mosquitofish,Gambusia affinis (Baird and Girard)

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Abstract

Size-dependence of mercury (II) accumulation from water by the mosquitofish,Gambusia affinis was assessed under controlled laboratory conditions. Uptake rates were higher for smaller fish than for larger fish. Mean (±S.D.) uptake rate for mosquitofish exposed to 0.24 μg/L of Hg was 0.32 ± 0.15 μg/g dry wt/day. Uptake rate constants were similar for the Hg (II) and Hg° as reported elsewhere. Both inorganic species (Hg (II) and Hg°) were accumulated faster than methylmercury. Elimination rate constants averaged 0.53∓0.14 per day (mean ± 1 S.D.). No significant size effects on elimination rate constants were detected. Elimination constants were similar to those reported elsewhere for Hg° elimination but larger than those for methylmercury elimination.

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  1. Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, P.O. Drawer E, 29801, Aiken, South Carolina, USA

    Michael C. Newman & Danette K. Doubet

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  1. Michael C. Newman
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  2. Danette K. Doubet
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Newman, M.C., Doubet, D.K. Size-dependence of mercury (II) accumulation kinetics in the mosquitofish,Gambusia affinis (Baird and Girard). Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 18, 819–825 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01160295

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01160295

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