Differences in metal profiles revealed by native mussels and artificial mussels in Sarcay Stream, Turkey: implications for pollution monitoring

Abstract

Using the native mussel Unio crassus and artificial mussels (AMs), profiles of 11 metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, U, Zn) were determined and compared in winter and summer along a pollution gradient in Sarcay Stream, Turkey. Principal components analysis and correlation analysis showed that metal profiles in the native mussels and AMs were different. Concentrations of most metals were significantly higher in the native mussels compared with AMs, suggesting that metals in Sarcay Stream predominantly existed in suspended particulates and food compartments, rather than in dissolved form. Although U was not readily accumulated by the native mussels, it could be taken up by AMs. Overall, the results suggest that the use of native mussels and AMs in water quality monitoring can provide complementary information and a better estimate and coverage of different metal species and forms in aquatic environments.