Fate of 14C-benzene in Eggs and Larvae of Pacific Herring (Clupea harengus pallasi)

Abstract

Eggs and larvae of Pacific herring were exposed to low concentrations of 14C-labeled benzene, a soluble, aromatic component of crude oil. All life stages accumulated benzene from water in direct proportion to the initial exposure concentrations, reaching equilibrium within 6–12 h. Feeding larvae exposed to benzene through water and live food accumulated benzene initially from the water, then secondarily from the food. The maximum amount of benzene accumulated in tissues was inversely related to age. Eggs accumulated up to 10.9 times the initial concentration, yolk-sac larvae up to 6.9 times, and feeding larvae to 3.9 times. Reasons for these differences in total accumulation and uptake rate are discussed. Results provide evidence for food web magnification of petroleum-based hydrocarbons. Key words: Pacific herring, Clupea harengus pallasi, eggs and larvae, 14C-benzene, uptake, depuration, food chain, petroleum-based hydrocarbons