Talitrid amphipods as biomonitors of trace metals near Dunedin, New Zealand

Abstract

Concentrations of copper, zinc, and cadmium were measured in two widespread New Zealand talitrid amphipod crustaceans, Talorchestia quoyana (Milne‐Edwards) and Orchestia tenuis Dana, collected from ten sites in the region of Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand in February 1990. Body metal concentrations were compared intraspecifically by Analysis of Covariance, differences in these accumulated concentrations reflecting differences in metal bioavailabilities in local coastal waters. We conclude that both amphipods can be used as biomonitors of these metals in New Zealand coastal waters.

Keywords:

• biomonitors
• trace metals
• New Zealand
• Orchestia
• Talorchestia
• Amphipoda
• Talitridae