The relationship between oil pollution and density of pearl oyster (Pinctada fucata) in the Persian Gulf

Abstract

The pearl oyster (Pinctada fucata) is considered as a valuable resources in the Persian Gulf. The aim of this research was to investigate the impact of petroleum hydrocarbons on density as well as destruction of this oyster. For this purpos, the Lavan region (Dardur, Hedabad, Chalil), Nakhilou and Hendurabi were chosen as the present habitat of the pearl oyster and Bostaneh, Moghooyeh, Molou and Geshe as the former habitat. The statistical analysis showed that the amount of petroleum hydrocarbons in sediments and soft tissues of oysters of Lavan stations is significantly different and Lavan region due to being close to oil terminals is more polluted. Meanwhile in winter petroleum hydrocarbons was found more than summer. Regarding to the density of oyters, it can be concluded that in present habitats with the increase of petroleum hydrocarbons in the body of oysters and sediments, the density of oyster was decreased.