The effect of mercury on the feeding behavior of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas)

Fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) were exposed to mercury (1.69, 6.79, and 13. 57 μg/L HgCl2, 10 days exposure), and afterward their foraging ability was tested in a vegetated habitat for 7 days. Among the foraging metrics used were foraging efficiency, capture speed, and the ability to learn and retain information regarding habitat characteristics. In addition to behavioral tests, muscle tissue acetylcholinesterase activity and brain levels of several neurotransmitters were investigated. Comparisons with control fish and fish from the two highest exposure groups revealed consistent performance deficits in foraging efficiency and capture speed. However, no treatment effects on learning were detected, nor were differences in neurotransmitter levels detected. In determining the underlying proximate cause of the foraging deficits, it is believed that the greater pause time exhibited by treatment fish while foraging was the main cause of treatment differences. In the future, behavioral studies will continue to allow toxicity testing of environmentally relevant variables such as those used by behavioral ecologists.