Comparative bioaccumulation of trace metals in Penaeus stylirostris in estuarine and coastal environments

Trace metal concentrations (Fe, Mn, Ni, Cu, Co, Cd, Cr and Zn) have been measured in estuarine and marine shrimp P. stylirostris collected in the Pacific coast of México. Estuarine individuals (juveniles) had higher concentrations of Fe and Mn than marine individuals (adults). Size-dependent relationships were observed and differed among the elements examined. A negative slope was found for Co, Fe, Mn and Ni in estuarine juvenile shrimps, while for Cu the opposite tendency occurred. In marine adults a positive slope was observed for Cd, Co, Cr and Cu. These findings may be due to two factors: (1) that P. stylirostris spends part of its life-cycle in estuarine/lagoon environments where it is more likely to be exposed to higher levels of bioavailable trace metals (natural and anthropogenic contributions) and/or (2) different metabolic requirements of young and older specimens, which is especially applicable to copper.